Nigeria CHAN 2024 triumph restored pride as the Super Eagles beat Congo 2–0, finishing their campaign with dignity despite group-stage elimination

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania  Nigeria CHAN 2024 began their final Group D match with pride on the line, defeating Congo 2–0 at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship PAMOJA 2024 on Tuesday.

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Anas Yusuf ended Nigeria’s goal drought with a 56th-minute strike, followed by Sikiru Alimi’s stoppage-time header that sealed the victory. Despite the win, the Super Eagles’ campaign ended short as Sudan and Senegal advanced to the quarter-finals.

Coach Eric Chelle described the win as bittersweet. “Mistakes have haunted us,” he admitted, reflecting on the turbulent start where Nigeria conceded five goals in their opening two matches.

Tuesday’s performance marked their most disciplined display, showing resilience and determination.

Congo, needing a win to progress, squandered key opportunities and suffered a late red card for Charles Atipo after a VAR review. Moments later, Alimi’s header confirmed Congo’s exit, while Nigeria celebrated their first CHAN 2024 victory.

With eight key players unavailable due to overseas commitments, Chelle had to rebuild his squad on the fly. The early defeats proved costly, but the Super Eagles leave Dar es Salaam with dignity restored and lessons learned for future tournaments, CAF Online noted.

Sudan topped Group D on goal difference (+4) ahead of Senegal (+1). Nigeria finished third with three points, while Congo ended at the bottom with two. Sudan and Senegal continue into the knockout rounds, both unbeaten and defensively solid.

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The Super Eagles may have exited CHAN 2024 early, but their final victory offered a powerful reminder of their potential and fighting spirit.