Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been knocked out of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) following a crushing 4-0 loss to Sudan in their second Group D fixture on Tuesday in Zanzibar.
The result, coming after a 1-0 defeat to defending champions Senegal in their opening match, means Nigeria’s exit is confirmed regardless of the outcome of their final group game against Congo in Dar es Salaam next week.
This defeat matches Nigeria’s heaviest in CHAN history, equalling the 4-0 loss to Morocco in the 2018 final.
It was a night to forget for Ikorodu City defender Leonard Ngenge, who scored an own goal in the 23rd minute to put Sudan ahead. Just before half-time, he conceded a penalty for handball, which Daiyeen calmly converted to double Sudan’s lead.
The Falcons of Jediane dominated the second half, with Yagoub Omer scoring twice in quick succession. His first came in the 55th minute after a slick solo run through Nigeria’s defence, and his second in the 62nd was a thunderous effort that bounced in off the crossbar.
Nigeria remain winless and goalless after two matches, prompting heavy criticism from fans and raising concerns about the team’s preparation and tactical approach.
The Super Eagles B have now failed to advance beyond the group stage in two consecutive CHAN tournaments, increasing pressure on the coaching staff and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to reassess the future of the home-based national team.
