Nduka Junior described his first appearance for the Super Eagles as “amazing”, following Nigeria’s 0–0 draw with Ghana in the first leg of their 2025 CHAN qualifier at Accra Sports Stadium.
The Remo Stars defender, who captained the CHAN Eagles, expressed pride and acknowledged the weight of responsibility “It’s an amazing feeling for me, being the captain and representing the country… there is a lot of responsibility for me”.
He emphasised that the tie is far from over: “We’ve not won yet. We are close to the finish line, but we need to consolidate on this result”. The clean sheet itself marked a milestone, being the nation’s first such defensive shutout in Ghana after previous losses.
Nigeria will face Ghana again in the return leg on Saturday, 28 December, at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. A victory of any margin will secure their place in the 2025 CHAN, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 1 to 28 February.
Editorial
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We believe Nduka Junior’s debut reflects more than personal achievement it signals the emergence of a confident defensive backbone for future Eagles squads. When a player steps onto the field as captain in his first match for the national side, it speaks to leadership and trust instilled by the coaching staff.
We admire his acknowledgement of responsibility and composure under pressure. A draw in Ghana especially a goalless one breaks the historical pattern and demonstrates defensive discipline and tactical awareness rarely seen in previous encounters.
We recognise that this is just one step. Nduka’s insistence that “we’ve not won yet” shows maturity and focus a refusal to allow fans or media to overhype the result. That attitude strengthens team cohesion, ensuring players feel the task remains firmly in their hands.
We urge the team to build on this foundation. A resilient defence must be matched by discipline in midfield and creativity upfront. With the return leg in Uyo approaching, the Eagles should evolve from cautious backline structure to balanced assertiveness.
We stand by his declaration responsibility embraced today becomes opportunity seized tomorrow. Nduka Junior’s debut is a reminder that beginnings matter but what follows is what defines legacy.
Did You Know?
- The clean sheet in Accra was Nigeria’s first shutout in Ghana at CHAN qualifiers, following defeats of 3–2 and 2–0.
- The return leg is set for 28 December 2024, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
- Qualification would earn Nigeria a place in CHAN 2025, the African Nations Championship, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda from 1–28 February.
- Nduka Junior has captained Remo Stars throughout the 2024–25 NPFL season, showcasing leadership at both club and national level.
- This debut match was played before a packed Accra Sports Stadium an intense atmosphere that tested defensive resolve and mental strength.
