'I strongly believe' - Ex-Enyimba GK Noble optimistic Super Eagles can make history by winning CHAN

Veteran Nigerian goalkeeper John Noble has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles’ ability to make history by winning the African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the first time. 

Despite acknowledging the difficulty of their group, the 31-year-old believes the team has the quality and determination to succeed.

At the recent draw in Nairobi, Nigeria was placed in Group D alongside defending champions Senegal, Sudan, and Congo. 

The group is widely regarded as one of the toughest, but Noble sees it as an opportunity for the Super Eagles to prove their mettle.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Flashscore, Noble said, "The group is tough, as expected, because every team worked really hard to qualify. And to be the best team in Africa, you have to face the best teams. 

"Senegal may be the defending champions, but that’s history now. The results will be decided on the pitch, not in the headlines."

After missing the last two editions of the tournament, Nigeria made their return in style, eliminating fierce rivals Ghana during the qualifiers. 

Noble praised the team’s performance in preparation matches, including a 3-2 win over Sunshine Stars, as a sign of their readiness.

"I watched the highlights of their friendly against Sunshine Stars, and I must say, I was impressed. The boys are determined, full of fight, and hungry for success," he added.

The former Enyimba captain emphasized the importance of preparation and described the tournament’s postponement to August 2024 as a blessing. 

"The postponement gives the technical team more time to fine-tune strategies and address any weaknesses. With proper preparation, we can handle any opponent,” Noble said.

The Super Eagles’ best CHAN performance was in 2018 when they finished as runners-up, losing to Morocco in the final. Noble believes that history can be rewritten in Kenya this year. 

"Based on how they performed in the qualifiers, I strongly believe we have a real chance to make history in Kenya by winning the competition for the first time,” he stated.

The goalkeeper concluded by urging fans to support the team and expressed optimism about their chances. 

"All I can do is wish them the best of luck and hope they succeed," he said.

The 2024 CHAN was postponed by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to ensure the host countries meet the necessary infrastructure requirements. 

The tournament will now take place in August, with exact dates yet to be confirmed.

As preparations intensify, the Super Eagles will look to capitalize on the extended timeline and make their mark in the continental competition.

Wale Adejumo

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