By Irom Daniel
Super Eagles coach has lamented the team’s performance in the embarrassing 4-0 defeat to Sudan on Tuesday in the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The result sealed their elimination from the tournament with one game still to play.
The Sudanese team came out firing from the first whistle, exploiting defensive lapses and outpacing Nigeria’s backline. Two quick goals in the first half left the Eagles chasing shadows, with goalkeeper Abubakar Adamu forced into several saves to prevent an even heavier scoreline before the break.
Hopes of a second-half fightback evaporated just minutes after the restart, as Sudan struck twice more through swift counter-attacks that exposed Nigeria’s lack of organisation. The midfield struggled to retain possession, while the forwards rarely troubled the Sudanese goalkeeper.
The defeat means Nigeria remains rooted to the bottom of the group table with zero points from two matches, having also lost their opening fixture. Their final group game against Congo will be little more than a ceremonial outing, with qualification hopes already extinguished.
This marks the country’s poorest CHAN campaign since debuting in the competition, prompting widespread criticism from fans and analysts.
Chelle was disappointed with the team’s performance in the encounter.
He said: “We have lost all ambition. The CHAN is over for us. We have a third match to play for our honour and respect. But I am disappointed by this match. It is the worst game I’ve overseen from the dugout as a coach.
“Though some important players left our preparations camp, these were the best players in our league. We can’t play a game like that and lose in the manner we did. We need to be more focused.
“The players focused in the first 20 minutes. Our goal was ruled out, and afterwards, we made a lot of mistakes… 4 mistakes, 4 goals. Our training session before the game went well. We analyzed Sudan’s team. We prepared well, but were not ready for as many mistakes.”
Many have questioned the team’s preparation, tactical approach, and squad selection, with calls mounting for a comprehensive review of the domestic football structure.
CHAN, which features only players plying their trade in their home countries, has often been seen as a platform to showcase local talent.
However, Nigeria’s performance in this edition has left supporters disappointed and demanding urgent reforms ahead of future tournaments.
Nigeria will be in action against Congo on Tuesday in their last Group D match.
