Nigeria are the champions of the Unity Cup 2025, etching their name on the trophy for a historic third time after a nerve-shredding 5-4 penalty shootout victory over a fiercely competitive Jamaican side. The final, held at a vibrant G-Tech Community Stadium in West London, was a classic encounter, finishing 2-2 after 90 minutes of pulsating football that saw leads exchanged and resilience tested to its limits.
The Super Eagles, under the guidance of Eric Chelle, drew first blood in the 10th minute. A slick move culminated in Cyril Dessers teeing up captain Moses Simon, who coolly slotted home his 10th international goal. However, the Reggae Boyz, managed by Steve McLaren, hit back almost immediately. Less than two minutes later, Renaldo Cephas orchestrated a swift attack, delivering a pinpoint cross for Kaheem Dixon to level the scores, sending the Jamaican contingent into raptures.
The first half was a feisty affair, with tackles flying in and tempers occasionally flaring, resulting in several yellow cards, including one for Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle and bookings for Jamaica’s Dixon and Kasey Palmer.
The second half saw Nigeria regain the advantage through a moment of sheer brilliance from Samuel Chukwueze. The AC Milan star, picking up a pass from Nathan Tella, showcased his class by weaving through the Jamaican defence before firing a precise shot past Jahmali Waite. But Jamaica, true to their fighting spirit throughout the tournament, refused to lie down. Renaldo Cephas, a constant thorn in Nigeria’s side, delivered his second assist of the game, setting up Johnathan Russell to make it 2-2.
With no further goals despite late pressure from both sides, the final whistle signaled a penalty shootout. Nigeria’s nerve held firm. Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Sodiq Ismaila, and ultimately debutant Chrysantos Uche all converted their spot-kicks. Jamaica were equally clinical until Dwayne Atkinson’s effort cannoned off the crossbar. That single miss proved decisive, as Uche stepped up to calmly slot home the winning penalty, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Nigerian players and their supporters.
While heartbreak for Jamaica, who twice battled back to level terms, Nigeria’s perfect record from the spot secured them the Unity Cup, a testament to their composure under extreme pressure in a final that will be long remembered for its drama and entertainment.
