CHAN 2024: Eric Chelle provides Super Eagles team news ahead of “must-win” fixture against Sudan
Nigeria looking to bounce back from opening-round defeat
Nigeria’s Super Eagles B team will be looking to rebound from their defeat on the opening day of the 2024 African Nations Championship, when they were edged to a 1-0 victory by reigning champions Senegal on August 5 at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
Given that Nigeria are drawn into the only group that features four teams in the competition, their upcoming clash against Sudan on Tuesday is likely to serve as a do-or-die encounter, which is a sentiment shared by the team’s head coach Eric Chelle.
Speaking at his side’s pre-match press conference, Chelle highlighted the intense preparation his side has undergone ahead of the encounter with the Falcons of Jediane, and made clear that they are firmly focused on the task ahead while leaving behind past setbacks. He said:
“I don’t think about what happened before or what will happen after. My focus is on my players and the big game. If we lose to Senegal in our first game, Senegal is a big team, and the reality is that if you watched the game, we didn’t deserve to lose. It was a mistake from us that cost us.”
With Sudan and Congo playing to a 1-1 draw in their opening match of the tournament, the Super Eagles currently occupy last place in Group D. They could be eliminated from the competition this week if they lose this match and the Lions of Teranga win their clash against the Red Devils.
Thus, Chelle and co have to win this fixture to keep their CHAN hopes alive. Failing to do so will also mount serious pressure on the national football team and head coach, given that their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes are also dwindling.
15-year-old starley called up for Super Eagles against Sudan
During Tuesday’s press conference, Chelle was questioned about the availability of certain members of his squad, specifically players who were flagged as doubts after the opening-round defeat to Senegal.
Abdularafiu Taiwo was one such player whose participation was in doubt after being replaced by Harrison Uzondu in the second half against the champs, while shot-stopper Ani Ozoemena Henry was a late withdrawal due to a knee problem. Chelle confirmed:
“Taiwo Abdulrafiu is okay. However, the reality is that Ani Ozoemena is injured, and we just had to bring Ebenezer in, and I trust him.”
Ebenezer Harcourt is just 15 years of age and is expected to be the next Nigerian star after his incredible performances at the U20 AFCON. He is unlikely to feature in the competition, though being a part of the team will be a massive step forward in his development.
