The Super Eagles B, Nigeria’s home-based national football team, secured their qualification for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a convincing 3-1 victory over Ghana in the second leg of their final qualifying fixture. This triumphant return to the CHAN tournament, hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from February 1st to 28th, 2025, marks Nigeria’s first appearance in six years, having last participated in the 2018 edition. The two-legged qualifier against Ghana saw a goalless draw in the first leg in Accra, followed by a dominant performance in Uyo, where the Super Eagles B showcased their attacking prowess, scoring three goals in the first half. This victory ignites a renewed sense of hope and anticipation for the team as they embark on their journey to compete on the continental stage.
Stand-in coach Daniel Ogunmodede, who collaborated with Fidelis Ilechukwwu of Rangers International to assemble the final squad, expressed optimism about the team’s future preparations. He highlighted the meticulous planning that went into the qualifiers, including three phases of camping, the last of which spanned four weeks in Ikenne. This rigorous training regimen proved instrumental in their success against Ghana, and Ogunmodede emphasized the importance of maintaining similar preparations for the CHAN tournament itself. He believes the core of the team has proven its capabilities and requires only minor adjustments based on performance analysis and identification of areas for improvement. The coach’s confidence underscores the team’s potential and their readiness to face the challenges ahead.
Ogunmodede has consistently emphasized the significance of Nigeria’s participation in the CHAN tournament. He views it as a crucial platform to showcase the talent burgeoning within the domestic league, elevating its profile and inspiring the next generation of Nigerian footballers. This sentiment reflects the broader impact of CHAN beyond mere competition, serving as a catalyst for the development and growth of local football. By providing exposure to a wider audience, the tournament offers an opportunity for players to gain recognition, potentially attracting interest from international clubs and further enhancing their careers.
Nigeria’s history in the CHAN tournament has been marked by both near misses and notable achievements. While they have never lifted the trophy, the Super Eagles B finished third in the 2014 edition hosted by South Africa, demonstrating their competitive spirit and potential. Four years later, in 2018, they came agonizingly close to victory, reaching the final only to be defeated by hosts Morocco. These past experiences, although bittersweet, provide valuable lessons and motivation for the current squad as they aim to make their mark in the 2024 tournament. The desire to surpass previous accomplishments and finally claim the coveted CHAN title will undoubtedly fuel their determination and drive their preparations.
The qualification for CHAN 2024 represents more than just a return to the tournament; it symbolizes a renewed opportunity for Nigerian football to shine on the continental stage. The home-based players have a chance to prove their mettle, demonstrate the quality of the domestic league, and inspire a new wave of footballing talent in the country. The performance against Ghana, with its convincing scoreline and dominant display, serves as a testament to their potential and provides a glimpse of what they are capable of achieving.
As the Super Eagles B embark on their journey towards CHAN 2024, the focus will be on meticulous preparation, tactical refinement, and fostering a strong team spirit. The experience gained from previous tournaments, combined with the current squad’s talent and determination, creates a powerful combination that could propel them to achieve their ultimate goal – to lift the CHAN trophy for the first time. The nation’s footballing hopes and aspirations rest on their shoulders, and they carry the responsibility of representing Nigeria with pride and passion on the African stage.
