CHAN 2024: Chelle – We Showed Our Quality

CHAN 2024: Chelle – We Showed Our Quality

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle believes the Super Eagles’ final group-stage victory over Congo was a strong reminder of their quality, despite failing to reach the knockout stages of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The home-based Eagles exited the tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania with a morale-boosting 2–0 win in Dar es Salaam.

Goals from Anas Yusuf and Sikiru Alimi secured the victory, but defeats in their opening two matches had already ended their qualification hopes.

Congo, who needed a win to advance, finished bottom of Group D.

“We showed our technical ability in the latter stages, even though we lost too many balls earlier on".

"Overall, the performance was good, and we deserved to win. I only regret that our mistakes in the first two games cost us dearly. Against Congo, the boys played with honor and showed what they could really do.”

The Malian tactician defended his squad, emphasizing that pressure and inexperience played a role in their struggles.

“I don’t think the players let me down. They were under immense pressure and sometimes played scared. But against Congo, they responded positively and showed resilience. Our only big regret remains the heavy defeat to Sudan, but that’s football. We’ll analyze that match thoroughly to improve in the future.”

In the group’s other fixture, Sudan and Senegal played out a goalless draw, ensuring both nations progressed with five points each. Senegal advanced as group leaders on goal difference, while Nigeria finished third with three points just one short of qualification.