Stalemate in Accra: Ghana and Nigeria Draw in CHAN 2024 Qualifiers

Ghana and Nigeria drew 0-0 in the opening leg of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifications on Sunday at Accra Sports Stadium, which was almost empty. Despite dominating the first half, the Black Galaxies struggled to convert opportunities against a tenacious Nigerian defense.

Ghana’s Kamaradini Mamudu had an early opportunity in the 10th minute, but his header went straight into the arms of Nigeria’s goalkeeper, Henry Ozoemena Ani. Stephen Amankona came close again in the 17th minute, but his shot was deflected in the box, frustrating the home side.

Nigeria answered in the 30th minute, when captain Junior Harrison Nduka's free shot hit the post and almost broke the tie. In the second half, Ghana's Jerry Afriyie found himself in a favorable position but was denied by Nigeria's strong defensive line.

The match finished in a draw, placing the tie in a delicate balance ahead of the second leg on December 28 at Uyo's Godswill Akpabio Stadium. The winner on aggregate will advance to the CHAN finals, which will be held in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in February 2025.