Previewing the ‘Jollof Derby’: How anticipation builds for Nigeria vs Ghana clash in Marrakech

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face off against the Black Stars of Ghana tomorrow in Marrakech, Morocco, marking the debut of both teams’ new managers, Soccernet.ng reports.

Both teams will be under new leadership after their previous managers guided them through the AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast. Nigeria, led by Jose Peseiro, finished as runners-up, while Ghana, under Chris Hughton, was eliminated in the group stage, leading to his dismissal.

Nigeria has appointed former Ajax winger Finidi George as an interim coach until a permanent solution is found. Meanwhile, the Ghanaian FA has chosen former Borussia Dortmund talent coach Otto Addo as their head coach, offering him a monthly salary of $50,000.

The reception to the new appointments has been mixed among fans of both nations. Nigerians are hopeful and patient with Finidi, considering him a potential long-term solution for the team.

I reached out to journalists from both countries to discuss the anticipation of the game and their expected outcome. From Nigeria, Pushe Esther Newsnow, and TVC’s Toyosi Afolayan maintained that any game against Ghana is never a friendly, and plays up an even bigger role in Finidi’s role as a potential permanent coach for the Super Eagles.

“It’s never a friendly game with Ghana in all honesty. This is a West African derby. Nigeria are the favourites for the encounter due to Ghana’s recent woeful performance. About Finidi? Other coaches are in contention but he has gotten a window of opportunity to show Nigerians his pattern of play albeit the result,” Toyosi told Soccernet.ng.

Ghana’s fans, however, are less enthusiastic about Otto Addo’s appointment. Despite his previous experience, many were surprised by his selection and the hefty salary offered.

In a discussion with 3Sports Owuraka Ampofo, he revealed that the Ghana FA are willing to give Addo time to integrate his style of play, although he’s not expecting anyghing huge against Nigeria.

“I don’t think Ghana has the team to beat Nigeria. Mohammed Kudus, Thomas Partey, and Inaki Williams are not present, alongside a new coach, so I’m not so confident they can win. About the coach? The decision came as a surprise, as he’s fairly inexperienced. He has good potential, but he will need time, so the FA gave him a three-year contract with the option to extend for another two, so if he gets the tools, I think there’s a good coach in there,” Ampofo told Soccernet.ng.

Despite being a friendly match, the stakes are high for both sides in what has been dubbed the “jollof-derby,” symbolizing the historic rivalry between the two nations. With Nigeria considered the favorite due to Ghana’s recent poor performances, the game promises to be intense.

In 58 previous encounters, Ghana has emerged victorious 25 times, while the Super Eagles have won 12 games. However, in the spirit of friendly competition, anything can happen.

The Black Stars will be without Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Inaki Williams, Gideon Mensah, Majeed Ashimeru, and Alexander Djiku.

N.B: We want to hear your thoughts. Do you believe Nigeria holds the advantage in this match? Share your opinions in the comments below.