A spirited end to their African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) campaign saw Nigeria beat Congo 2-0 on Tuesday night.
Having already bowed out following losses to Senegal and Sudan, the Super Eagles rediscovered rhythm in their final group match. Anas Yusuf broke the deadlock in the 55th minute, calmly converting from close range after Sikiru Alimi’s well-placed header, reigniting the contest.
The opening goal injected urgency into an otherwise muted first half. Defence, previously suspect, tightened up admirably, while the midfield gradually asserted control of possession.
In stoppage time, Nigeria wrapped up the victory. Alimi nodded in a stooping header deep into added time before making way for Godwin Obaje, sealing a composed finish.
The win was not without tension: Congo’s Charles Atipo received a red card following a VAR review of a foul on Alimi, and several yellow cards underlined the match’s physical edge. Nigeria utilised a slew of substitutions to keep energy levels high to the final whistle.
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Unable to respond, Congo ended their CHAN 2024 campaign with just two points from three games. Nigeria, meanwhile, closed the group stage on a high note—marking their first victory of the tournament.
Editorial
We witness how a team, seemingly dispirited by earlier setbacks, managed to rally when it mattered. Volleys of determination and tactical recalibration turned a disappointing campaign into one that ended with pride. Yusuf’s finish, assisted by Alimi’s precision, signalled a shift in momentum—and it was backed by a defiant defensive display.
They demonstrated resilience. When the midfield seized control and the defence found organisation, Nigeria’s performance transformed. Alimi’s late header was not just a goal; it was a statement: they refused to leave without leaving their mark.
Even amid harsh tackles and heated exchanges, the team kept composure. The substitutions injected fresh impetus, and collectively, we recognise that squad depth matters. That victory may not erase earlier mistakes, yet it reveals the creative spirit and competitive mettle lying beneath.
We believe that redemption through performance is more powerful than redemption through circumstance. By fighting until the end, the Super Eagles turned final-group fatigue into a defining way to close. It is in that spirit that we believe this victory will serve as a foundation moving forward.
Did You Know?
- The African Nations Championship (CHAN) is unique because it features only players active in their domestic leagues, unlike the African Cup of Nations.
- Anas Yusuf previously impressed for Abia Warriors in the Nigeria Premier League, earning a national team call-up through stellar domestic form.
- Nigeria has hosted the CHAN tournament twice first in 2018 and again in 2024 showcasing the country’s infrastructure for home-based players.
- A VAR (Video Assistant Referee) decision has overturned less than 15% of red card incidents in recent CHAN tournaments, making Atipo’s dismissal relatively uncommon.
- Godwin Obaje, who came on late in the match, won the NPFL Golden Boot in the 2022 season, underlining his ability to impact from the bench.
