Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles wrapped up their African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign with a 2-0 victory over Congo in their final Group D fixture.
The match, played in Zanzibar, provided little comfort as Nigeria had already been eliminated following defeats in their opening two games.
How the Game Unfolded
After a goalless first half, Nigeria broke the deadlock in the 56th minute through Anas Yusuf of Nasarawa United, who finished off a fine assist from Remo Stars forward Sikiru Alimi.
Congo’s chances of a comeback were further dented when Charles Atipo was shown a straight red card, leaving them with ten men.
The Super Eagles sealed the win deep into stoppage time when Alimi turned scorer, slotting home Nigeria’s second after good work from his Remo Stars teammate, Sodiq Ismaila.
Nigeria’s Campaign Recap
Despite ending on a positive note, Nigeria’s campaign was disappointing. The team lost 1-0 to defending champions Senegal in their opener before suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to Sudan in their second match. Those results meant the victory against Congo was only a matter of pride.
Congo, meanwhile, had drawn both of their previous matches, 1-1 against Sudan and 1-1 against Senegal, but the defeat to Nigeria and the goalless draw between Sudan and Senegal sealed their elimination from the tournament.
