In a pulsating Unity Cup final at the Gtech Community Stadium in west London, Nigeria triumphed over Jamaica 5-4 in a tense penalty shootout after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

Here is a detailed assessment of how each player performed during the crucial encounter:

The starters

Goalkeeper

Stanley Nwabali : Nwabali was assured throughout the match. His calmness under pressure and accurate distribution helped the team maintain control, particularly during moments when the opponents pushed forward aggressively. 6.5/10

Defenders

Igoh Ogbu: The Slavia Prague man was steady at the back, effectively reading the game and positioning himself well to thwart dangerous attacks. His composure in possession allowed the Eagles to build play from the defense. 6/10

Benjamin Fredrick : Fredrick’s defensive discipline stood out. He was a vital presence, consistently breaking down opposition moves and clearing threats. 6/10

Felix Agu : On his senior debut for the three-time African champions, Agu was lively going forward and also contributed defensively. 7.5/10

Ismaila Sodiq: Sodiq balanced defensive duties with offensive support. The Remo Stars ace struggled to cope with Jamaica’s pace and physicality. 5.5/10

Midfielders and forwards

Wilfred Ndidi: He was the engine of the team, controlling the midfield with his tireless work rate and strong ball-winning skills. His leadership inspired the team, as he broke up plays and initiated attacks, helping Nigeria dictate the pace. 8/10

Frank Onyeka: Onyeka complemented Ndidi’s efforts with energetic pressing and accurate passing. He helped maintain midfield stability and contributed to transitioning the ball quickly into attack. 6/10

Nathan Tella: Tella showed creativity and drive in midfield, attempting key passes and supporting the forwards before being substituted in the 75th minute, likely to preserve energy as the match intensified. Provided the assist for Nigeria's second goal. 7/10

Samuel Chukwueze: Chukwueze was dynamic, using his speed and skill to unsettle defenders. His ability to take on opponents created space and opportunities, though he was replaced late to keep fresh legs upfront. 8.5/10

Moses Simon: Simon provided width and pace, delivering important crosses and stretching the opponent’s defense. His movement kept defenders occupied, although he lacked a decisive final touch.7/10

Cyriel Dessers: Dessers worked hard in attack, holding up play well and pressing defenders, helping to maintain pressure even when chances were limited before his substitution in the 75th minute. The Rangers striker bagged his first assist in Nigeria's colours in the ninth minute. 7/10

The Substitutes

Tolu Arokodare: Arokodare injected fresh energy into the attack, helping Nigeria retain control during the critical closing stages.6/10

Christantus Uche: Uche contributed positively with his movement and effort, adding urgency to the frontline. He scored the winning penalty 7.5/10

Bruno Onyeamachi: Onyeamachi’s brief appearance helped the team maintain possession and composure. 7/10

Kelechi Iheanacho: Iheanacho brought experience and calmness in the final minutes, ensuring the team’s structure remained solid to close out the victory. Found the net in the shootout. 6.5/10

Wale Adejumo

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