How 10-man Black Stars beat Nigeria in dramatic AFCON 2008 quarter-final

The Ghana national football team produced one of their most memorable performances at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Nigeria 2–1 in a dramatic quarter-final clash in Accra.

Played on February 3, 2008, at the Ohene Djan Stadium, the intense encounter saw Ghana overcome adversity to secure a famous victory in front of a passionate home crowd.

Nigeria struck first in the 35th minute when striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni converted a penalty to give the Super Eagles the lead.

However, Ghana responded just before halftime through midfielder Michael Essien, who found the net in stoppage time to restore parity and ignite the stadium.

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The game took another dramatic turn in the 60th minute when Ghana defender John Mensah was shown a red card, reducing the hosts to ten men and forcing them to battle the remainder of the match at a numerical disadvantage.

Despite being a man down, the Black Stars showed remarkable determination.

With the match heading toward extra time, striker Junior Agogo delivered the decisive moment in the 83rd minute, scoring the winner to send the home supporters into wild celebrations.

Ghana’s starting lineup included Richard Kingson, John Paintsil, Anthony Annan, Sulley Muntari, Asamoah Gyan, and Junior Agogo.

Watch the video below:

Throwback Ghana defeated Nigeria with 10 men .. Bro this the black stars we all felt in love with. Mixed feelings seeing Agogo 💔 pic.twitter.com/49wKTOcTUv

— NEBASARK🇬🇭 (@NEBASARK) April 2, 2026

FKA/JE

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