Ghana locks horns with Nigeria in an epic final in the ACA Africa T20 North West Africa Regional Qualifiers at the Tafawa Balewa Square on Sunday, April 29, after both countries won their semi-final matches on Saturday.
Ghana, who played Gambia in the first semis won toss and chose to field. Gambia scored 59 runs, for 9 wickets while Ghana scored 60 runs, for 1 wicket in 7.3 overs.
Ghana won the game by 9 wickets and captain of the side, Isaac Otuafo Aboagye was adjudged Man of the Match. Isaac scored 31 runs, off 20 balls and took 3 wickets for 9 runs in 4 overs.
Nigeria, later in the day also defeated Sierra Leone by 7 wickets. After winning the toss, the host opted to field first. Sierra Leone scored 33 runs, all out in 7.5 overs, while Nigeria scored 34 runs, for 3 wickets in 3.5 overs.
Ghana and Nigeria will be meeting for the second time in the ACA competition and for the third time within two weeks in Lagos.
Ghana, in all those meetings have triumphed over their nemesis, including the finals of the ICC World T20 Africa Qualifier A in which they won by 4 wickets after a 73 runs, all out in 19.4 overs and 74 runs, for 6 wickets in 13.4 overs results on Saturday, April 21.
Speaking with Voltaonline Sports, Ghana’s Coach, Kodam Kofi Anefie said they have proven to be the best.
“We are certain of a win because we have shown everybody and everything that we are the best. We only pray that officiating will be excellent for both teams. Apart from that, we don’t have any problem.”
Ghana has over the years suffered several defeats from the hands of Nigeria and is working on clearing the entire deficit.
However, it will still be a difficult final for both teams, as the host will also come all out to prove a point on home soil.
Ghana Cricket has the support of Africa World Airlines and Bethel Logistics, as well as the government as they seek to continue their dominance in Africa.
By: Davis Nii Attuquaye Clottey/voltaonlinegh.com
