Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles wrapped up their 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) journey with a 2–0 win over DR Congo in Abidjan on August 19.
The match, played at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, was Nigeria’s final Group D fixture. Though already eliminated, the team showed grit and pride.
Nigeria had suffered back-to-back defeats to Senegal (0–1) and Sudan (0–4), going 344 minutes without scoring. But against Congo, they finally found rhythm.
The breakthrough came in the 56th minute. Sikiru Alimi rose highest to nod down a long ball into the path of Anas Yusuf.
Yusuf kept his cool and slotted past goalkeeper Dimitri Bissiki. The goal sparked Nigeria’s best attacking spell of the tournament.
Alimi and Yusuf combined well, creating chances and pressing Congo’s defence. Congo responded with urgency.
Guy Mbenza tested Nigerian goalkeeper Victor Sochima twice, but Sochima stood firm.
In stoppage time, VAR reviewed Charles Atipo’s rough tackle on Alimi and upgraded it to a red card.
From the resulting free-kick, Alimi rose again and powered home a header in the 93rd minute to seal the win.
Group Standings and Coaches’ Reactions
Despite the win, Nigeria finished third in Group D with three points. Congo ended bottom with two points.
Sudan and Senegal both advanced with five points each. Sudan topped the group with a superior goal difference of +4.
The victory was Nigeria’s first at CHAN since January 2018, ending a long drought and offering a small consolation.
Head coach Éric Chelle praised the team’s spirit. “The players wanted to finish strong, and they did. It is not where we hoped to be, but it gives us a base to build from.”
Congo’s coach Barthélémy Ngatsono admitted his team lacked sharpness. “We created chances but did not take them. At this level, you must be efficient.”
Nigeria will now shift focus to rebuilding ahead of future tournaments, including the 2026 CHAN qualifiers and regional competitions.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment💬, share this article, Follow us on our social media handles, and Submit your own story to get featured and earn rewards!
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
