'This is a game for two big countries' – Eric Chelle expects fireworks in Super Eagles' CHAN opener

Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles are set to begin their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign with a high-stakes opener against defending champions Senegal.

The Group D clash will take place on Tuesday, August 5, at the 15,000-seater Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar City, marking Nigeria’s return to the competition after missing the last two editions.

Head coach Eric Chelle, speaking at the post-match press conference, expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and readiness.

"I don’t know if it’s a debate, but I know this is a game for two big countries in Africa,” Chelle said.

"Senegal and Nigeria have a history in football. They have lots of good teams, lots of good generations that play well, so this is a great game. Senegal is a big team.

"Our preparation was good so now we are ready to play this first game."

Chelle took charge of the home-based Eagles this year and has since implemented a possession-based, high-pressing tactical identity.

The team trained intensively at the Remo Stars Sports Institute in Ikenne before proceeding to Zanzibar, where they played two friendlies against the host nation – a goalless draw and a 2-2 stalemate.

The 23-man squad features a mix of domestic league standouts, including captain Junior Harrison Nduka, forwards Sikiru Alimi and Godwin Obaje, and midfielder Harrison Austin.

The team hopes to better its past performances, having won bronze in 2014 and silver in 2018, with the CHAN title still eluding the West African giants.

Nigeria’s Group D also includes Sudan and Congo, making progression to the knockout stage a tough challenge. 
However, Chelle’s tactical discipline and the squad’s unity have created a sense of optimism.

Wale Adejumo

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