Nigeria national football team secured a place in the Unity Cup final after a 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe national football team at The Valley in London, with debutant Femi Azeez delivering a standout performance.
The Millwall forward marked his first appearance in Nigeria colours with two goals, scoring in each half to seal a confident win for a largely reshuffled Super Eagles side featuring several debutants.
Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo started in goal, while defensive pair Chibueze Oputa and Kenneth Igboke were also handed starting roles as coach Eric Chelle fielded a youthful XI during the team’s title defence.
In the absence of Wilfred Ndidi, forward Terem Moffi captained the side and played a key role in both goals, providing the assist for Azeez’s opener after a well-worked attacking move.
Nigeria took an early lead through a swift attacking sequence, with Azeez finishing calmly from the edge of the box after Moffi set him up inside the area.
Zimbabwe responded with improved possession after the break but struggled to break down Nigeria’s defence, which remained composed under pressure.
Azeez doubled his tally shortly after the hour mark, finishing a fast counterattack initiated by Moffi down the left flank to put the result beyond doubt.
Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo was called into action late on but made a comfortable save to preserve Nigeria’s clean sheet as Zimbabwe pushed for a consolation goal.
Coach Eric Chelle made several substitutions to manage the game, bringing on Rafiu Durosinmi, Tosin Oyedokun, and Oseni Owen as Nigeria saw out the victory.
The result sets up a Unity Cup final against the winner of the second semi-final between Jamaica national football team and India national football team.
The final is scheduled for March 30 in London.
