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Nigeria’s second-string Super Eagles finally found their rhythm at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a 2-0 win over Congo in Dar es Salaam, Footynaija.com reports.
The home-based team, already eliminated after heavy defeats to Sudan and Senegal, had only pride to play for on matchday three. Their opponents, however, still had hopes of progressing, needing victory to stand any chance of qualifying from Group D.
After a cautious opening half, Nigeria seized control early in the second period. Nasarawa United forward Anas Yusuf, last season’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) top scorer, broke the deadlock in the 56th minute.
The striker reacted quickest to a knockdown from Sikiru Alimi, firing home from close range to give Nigeria their first goal of the tournament – ending a barren run of 237 minutes without scoring.
The strike was a significant personal milestone for Yusuf, making his first start at the competition after finishing top scorer in the 2024 NPFL season with 18 goals.
Congo attempted to rally late on but their hopes faded when they were reduced to 10 men in stoppage time following a VAR-reviewed reckless challenge. Almost immediately, Nigeria struck again. Alimi, who had earlier provided the assist, rose superbly to meet a cross and guided a stooping header beyond the goalkeeper in the 93rd minute to seal the result.
The victory lifted Nigeria off the foot of the group table, finishing third with three points, while Congo dropped to last place with two. In the other Group D encounter, Sudan and Senegal played out a goalless draw, with both sides advancing after collecting five points each.
Despite the disappointment of an early exit, Eric Chelle’s men avoided the ignominy of finishing pointless.
This was Nigeria’s first and only win at the 2024 African Nations Championship.
