Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles are set to bow out of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) without a single point when they face Congo in their final group game on Tuesday.
The Nigerians, led by coach Eric Chelle, have endured a disastrous campaign, losing 1-0 to defending champions Senegal before suffering a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Sudan.
They are yet to score a goal in the tournament and sit bottom of the group with zero points.
The poor run has raised doubts over Chelle’s appointment, with many questioning whether his Nigerian assistants, Daniel Ogumodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, who have managed most of the players in the NPFL, would have been better suited for the role.
Congo, on the other hand, remain unbeaten after holding both Senegal and Sudan to 1-1 draws. With two points from two matches, a victory against Nigeria would guarantee their passage to the quarterfinals, while a draw might jeopardize their qualification hopes.
Determined to capitalize on Nigeria’s crisis, Congo coach Barthelemy Ngatsono has made it clear that his side will settle for nothing less than three points.
He emphasized that his team have the spirit, determination, and endurance to push for victory and seal a place in the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s coach Chelle insists his side will not give up entirely, despite their elimination already being confirmed.
He has promised to take full responsibility for the failures so far but hopes to end the competition on a positive note by restoring some pride with a win over Congo.
The decisive fixture is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19, with Congo chasing qualification and Nigeria seeking redemption in what has been a bitterly disappointing CHAN campaign.
