Zanzibar 0 Nigeria 0: Three key takeaways from Super Eagles' goalless draw in pre-CHAN friendly

Nigeria’s Super Eagles B were held to a 0-0 draw by Zanzibar in a preparatory friendly match at the Amaan Stadium on Monday. 

The encounter, aimed at fine-tuning the squad ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), offered valuable insights into the team’s strengths and areas needing improvement. 

Here are three key observations from the game.

1. Michael Tochukwu Anchors the Midfield with Authority

One of the standout performers for Nigeria was Michael Tochukwu, who dictated play from central midfield. 

His calmness under pressure, range of passing, and tactical awareness allowed the Super Eagles B to control the tempo of the game. 

Tochukwu consistently recycled possession and linked defense with attack, keeping Nigeria on the front foot for large stretches. 

His display will likely boost his chances of securing a starting berth at CHAN, particularly given his ability to provide structure and composure in midfield.

2. Defensive Solidity but Attacking Bluntness

Nigeria looked well-drilled defensively, with the back four of Sodiq Ismail, Junior Nduka, Leo Ngenge, and Taiwo Abdulrafiu offering a stable foundation. 

Goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena was called into action just once in the first half, making a sharp save to deny Zanzibar on a counterattack. 

Despite the clean sheet, the Super Eagles B were toothless in the final third. 

Forwards Sikiru Alimi and Anthony Ijoma struggled to convert half-chances, with Ijoma’s 65th-minute header—Nigeria’s best effort—kept out by the Zanzibar goalkeeper. 

The lack of creativity and poor decision-making in advanced areas remain issues that need addressing.

3. CHAN Readiness Still a Work in Progress

While Nigeria showed moments of cohesion and technical superiority, the overall performance highlighted the team’s need for more tactical clarity and sharpness in front of goal.

Eric Chelle’s side dominated possession but often failed to turn that dominance into meaningful opportunities. 

The game served as a reminder that building chemistry within a largely home-based squad requires time and consistent high-level match exposure.

The Super Eagles B will get another chance to improve when they face Zanzibar again in a few days. 

Chelle and his technical crew will be hoping for a more clinical display as Nigeria continues its buildup to CHAN.

Wale Adejumo

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