Ghana coach Otto Addo says his ‘underdog’ side could spring a surprise against Nigeria in a decisive 2022 World Cup playoff on Tuesday.
There is little to separate from the two nations as they lock horns at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.
The two teams played out a goalless draw at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi last Friday.
Nigeria are touted as the overwhelming favourites to secure qualification but will have to do that at the expense of a resolute Ghanaian side.
And Ghana coach Otto Addo is confident his side could spring a surprise against the Super Eagles.
“We have a good team, we played well in Ghana, we will improve on it, we are here to push more, we are determined,” Addo said at pre-match conference
“I don’t see myself under pressure, it is a privilege to play Super Eagles in Nigeria, we are not better than Super Eagles and Super Eagles is not better than us.
“We are here to improve on our game until we are satisfied with our performance and score some goals.” he said.
Ghana had more of the possession and chances but proved sloppy in their finishing during the first leg in Kumasi.
Only twice did they test goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, who made a stop from a stinging shot by Issahaku Fatawu in the 33rd minute and then again in the 71st minute from Mohammed Kudus.
Nigeria’s best opening fell to Moses Simon 10 minutes into the second half but he squandered the chance to score a vital away goal.
Nigeria were awarded a penalty with 15 minutes left when Idrissu Baba Mohamed handled the ball after being tripped in his own penalty area, but after a VAR check the referee changed his decision and handed Ghana a free kick.
Ghana were playing their first game under new coach Otto Addo, who had former Brighton & Hove Albion manager Chris Hughton as a consultant.
He handed debuts to AS Roma teenager Felix Ohene-Gyan and 33-year-old former Belgium defender Denis Odoi, who switched allegiance ahead of the two-legged playoff.
Leicester City’s Ademola Lookman, who had previously played for England at under-21 level, made his Nigeria debut as a substitute for the last 15 minutes.
The winner of the match will qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
