Thomas Partey’s 10th-minute goal proved too costly for the Super Eagles as it eliminated Nigeria from the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles had been optimistic about getting a victory against the Black Stars after holding the Ghanaians to a goalless draw in the first leg in Kumasi.
The 60,000 capacity Moshood Abiola Stadium had been packed full of supporters who came to cheer the Super Eagles to victory but left disappointed after the final whistle.
Victory for Ghana means the Black Stars have now qualified for their 4th World Cup after missing the last edition in 2018 hosted by Russia.
How it happened in Abuja
Nigeria dominated the early exchanges at the Moshood Abiola Stadium but was stunned in the 10th minute when Thomas Partey shot beat Francis Uzoho in goal to give the Black Stars a 1-0 lead.
The Super Eagles responded almost immediately as Williams Troost-Ekong equalized from the penalty spot after Ademola Lookman was fouled inside the Ghanaian 18-yard box.
Victor Osihmen thought he had given Nigeria the lead after putting the ball in the net late in the first half but the Napoli man’s strike was chalked off after a VAR check after he was found offside.
The second half was largely uneventful as the Black Stars showed character and hunger as they prevented the Super Eagles from creating any meaningful opportunity to turn around the tie.
Loss for Nigeria means the Super Eagles have now failed to progress to the 2022 FIFA World Cup after a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations.
Source: SportsBrief.com