By VIVIAN AHANMISI

Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Team B, produced a spirited performance on Tuesday evening, defeating Congo 2-0 in their final Group D match of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The encounter took place at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with kick-off at exactly 6:00 p.m. local time.

Both nations had already been eliminated following earlier poor results, but the match provided an opportunity for pride, ranking, and a chance to end the tournament with dignity.

From the outset, the clash was fiercely contested, with both sides creating scoring chances. However, defensive solidity ensured that the first half ended goalless.

Nigeria eventually found the breakthrough when Anas Yusuf struck in the 57th minute, registering the Super Eagles’ first goal of the championship.

The goal energised the Nigerian team, who pressed forward with renewed confidence, forcing Congo into defensive errors and desperate clearances.

As Congo chased an equaliser, Nigeria capitalised on counterattacks. Substitute Alimi Yusuf doubled the advantage in the 93rd minute, sealing a deserved 2-0 victory.

The late goal effectively ended Congo’s hopes of a comeback, leaving the Congolese side in deep disappointment as they finished bottom of the group with two points.

For Nigeria, the victory brought consolation. In spite of being eliminated due to earlier losses, the win lifted them to third place in Group D, above Congo.

The Super Eagles B had endured a difficult campaign, losing their opener 0-1 to Senegal and suffering a heavy 0-4 defeat to hosts Sudan.

Those results meant their chances of qualifying for the knockout stage were already extinguished before facing Congo, leaving the team to play only for pride.

Head coach Eric Chelle praised his players’ determination, noting that the team showed improved character compared with their earlier performances.

Supporters back home expressed mixed feelings. While pleased with the victory, many decried Nigeria’s inability to progress further in the continental competition.

Congo’s performance reflected resilience, but their inability to convert chances ultimately cost them. Their two draws and one defeat ensured an early exit from the tournament.

With the group stage concluded, Senegal and Sudan advanced to the knockout rounds, leaving Nigeria and Congo to reflect on missed opportunities. (NAN)