31
May
May
NIGERIA RETAIN UNITY CUP AFTER PENALTY SHOOTOUT WIN OVER JAMAICA
-
CapitalTimesNews / 5 days
- 0
- 1 min read
Nigeria claimed the Unity Cup for the second consecutive year, defeating Jamaica in a dramatic penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw in regulation time during Saturday’s final. The Super Eagles struck first when Moses Simon expertly finished from a Cyriel Dessers cross. However, Jamaica, the Reggae Boyz, responded almost immediately, leveling the score through Kaheim Dixon. Nigeria regained the lead thanks to a spectacular individual effort from Samuel Chukwueze. Once again, Jamaica demonstrated resilience, finding an equalizer in the 63rd minute when Jon Russell found the back of the net, forcing the match into extra time and ultimately penalties. With no further goals in extra time, the destiny of the trophy was decided from the penalty spot. Nigeria held their nerve to win the shootout, securing the championship. “It was a tough battle, but the team spirit carried us through,” stated goalscorer Moses Simon. “Scoring in the final is always special, but lifting the trophy again is what matters most.” Match-winner Samuel Chukwueze added, “Scoring that goal felt amazing, but credit to Jamaica, they fought incredibly hard. Winning the shootout and retaining the cup shows our character. This victory is for all Nigerian fans.”