Nigeria Exit CHAN Despite 2–0 Victory Over Congo
Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles B secured a long-awaited 2–0 victory over Congo in their final African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) group game, but the win was not enough to keep them in the tournament. Despite the spirited performance, Nigeria crashed out after finishing third in Group D, behind Sudan and Senegal.
Late Redemption, Too Late
Nigeria came into the final group match under immense pressure, having suffered a 1–0 loss to Senegal and a humiliating 4–0 defeat to Sudan in their opening fixtures. The team needed not only to beat Congo but also to rely on a favourable result in the group’s other game between Sudan and Senegal.
The breakthrough finally came in the 56th minute, when Anas Yusuf calmly slotted home after connecting with a clever header from Sikiru Alimi. The goal ended Nigeria’s seven-year CHAN goal drought, restoring pride to a team that had struggled in front of goal throughout the competition.
In stoppage time, Nigeria doubled their lead. With Congo reduced to 10 men following a VAR-reviewed red card, substitute Sodiq Ismaila delivered a perfect cross that Alimi powered into the net, sealing the 2–0 victory.
Group D Outcome Seals Nigeria’s Fate
While Nigeria celebrated a rare win, news filtered in from the other Group D clash: Sudan and Senegal played out a goalless draw, a result that ensured both nations advanced with five points each. Nigeria’s three points left them stranded in third place, while Congo finished bottom with just two.
Final Group D Standings:
- Sudan – 5 points
- Senegal – 5 points (+1 GD)
- Nigeria – 3 points
- Congo – 2 points
A Bittersweet Exit
Nigeria’s head coach, Éric Sekou Chelle, admitted after the game that while the victory was satisfying, the overall campaign fell far short of expectations.
“We are proud to end on a positive note, but our goal was qualification,” Chelle said. “We must reflect deeply on our preparation, squad depth, and ability to compete at this level. Nigerian football deserves better.”
The win may have restored some dignity, but the CHAN journey will be remembered for the record 4–0 loss to Sudan and the team’s inability to control crucial matches. Analysts have already pointed to structural issues in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), questioning its ability to consistently produce players ready for the demands of continental competition.
Fans React With Mixed Feelings
Many Nigerian fans took to social media to express relief at seeing the team finally score and win a game, but frustration lingered over the early elimination. Critics described the CHAN campaign as a “wake-up call” for Nigerian football authorities, urging reforms in local football administration, coaching development, and player scouting.
Looking Ahead
With Sudan and Senegal progressing to the knockout stages, Nigeria’s focus now shifts to rebuilding confidence ahead of the 2026 CHAN qualifiers. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is expected to hold an internal review to address what went wrong and how to avoid a repeat of this disappointment.
For now, the Super Eagles B leave Tanzania with just one win, two defeats, and plenty of questions about the future of Nigeria’s home-based football talent.
