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The whistle blows for half-time at the Marrakech Stadium, and Nigeria takes a slender 1-0 lead into the break against their fierce rivals, Ghana.
The opening stages saw both teams adopting a cautious approach, each seemingly focused on understanding the other's tactics. Nigeria, utilizing a 3-4-3 formation, enjoyed greater possession but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in the early minutes. Ghana, opting for a 4-2-3-1 formation, looked to exploit openings on the counter-attack.
The deadlock was broken in the 38th minute when a Ghanaian infringement inside the box resulted in a penalty awarded to Nigeria. Cyriel Dessers stepped up and coolly dispatched the penalty, sending the Nigerian fans into a frenzy.
The remainder of the first half saw Ghana searching for an equalizer. They had a golden chance in the 42nd minute when Antoine Semenyo found himself unmarked in front of the Nigerian goal, but his shot sailed over the bar. A yellow card for Salis Abdul Samed in the 38th minute further dampened Ghana's momentum.
Nigeria, meanwhile, picked up a yellow card of their own for Sopuruchukwu Onyemaechi in the 20th minute. Despite leading 1-0, the Super Eagles have not been without their defensive lapses. Kelechi Iheanacho had a promising shot in the 12th minute, but it was deflected by a Ghanaian defender.
The second half promises to be an exciting affair as Ghana strives to level the score and Nigeria attempts to solidify their lead. Can the Super Eagles maintain their advantage, or will the Black Stars find a way back into the game? We'll find out after the break!
