Ghana's Black Galaxies head coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, has downplayed the rivalry with Nigeria, focusing instead on his team's preparation for their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying fixture, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The two West African giants meet in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, with the second leg scheduled for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, next week.
While acknowledging the history between the two nations, Dramani emphasized his team's focus on technical, tactical, and psychological preparation.
"We focus on the team rather than the rivalry. While we respect the history, we are more focused on our technical, tactical, and psychological preparation," Dramani told CAFonline.
"The players are reminded to channel the pressure positively, emphasizing collective performance over individual efforts."
Ghana will aim to secure a positive result at home before traveling to Nigeria for the second leg.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun