Captain of Nigeria’s U20 national team, Kolocho-Bameyi Daniel, has described their opening clash against Ghana in the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Championship as a defining moment for his side. Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, the skipper underlined the importance of the encounter, saying his team is fully focused and determined.

“For you to be the best, you must beat the best,” Daniel stated confidently. “Playing against Ghana will be a good game. All eyes will be on the game tomorrow and we as players are not taking it for granted at all.”

The highly anticipated fixture between Nigeria and host nation Ghana is set to take place on Thursday, July 10 at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram. Kick-off is at 15:00 GMT. The match marks the start of Group A action in a tournament that brings together seven West African nations.

The rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana has always been intense across all levels of football, and Thursday’s game is expected to be no different. The two sides last met in the final of the previous WAFU U20 Championship, where Nigeria emerged champions. The stakes are high once again as both sides aim for early supremacy.

Daniel, a towering figure in Nigeria’s team, is expected to play a key role in organizing his side against a highly motivated Ghanaian attack. His words reflect a composed but competitive mindset within the Flying Eagles camp, who are aiming to defend their title and qualify for the Africa U20 Cup of Nations.

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