CHAN 2024: Home-Based Super Eagles Held to 2–2 Draw by Zanzibar

The home-based Super Eagles saw victory slip from their grasp as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Zanzibar in a pre-2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) friendly match on Thursday.

Nigeria went into halftime with a 2-0 lead, thanks to early strikes from Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United) and Adedayo Olamilekan, showcasing sharp attacking play and clinical finishing. However, Zanzibar mounted a spirited second-half comeback, scoring twice to level the tie and deny the Eagles a morale-boosting win ahead of the tournament proper.

This result follows a goalless stalemate between the two sides on Monday, making it two back-to-back draws in their double-header warmup series.

🗣️ Opinion: Promising First Half, but Late Wobble Raises Questions

While the first-half dominance was a positive sign, the second-half collapse highlights concerns about composure and game management — two things the team will need to address quickly. Against a defensively solid and experienced side like Senegal, such lapses could prove costly.

That said, friendlies are for fine-tuning — and these games have provided a valuable test ahead of the real challenge at CHAN 2024.

🔜 Next Challenge:

🆚 Senegal (Defending Champions)
📍 Amman Stadium, Zanzibar
📅 Next Tuesday
🕒 Group D Opener

Nigeria must now regroup and sharpen their tactics ahead of their crucial Group D opener, where they'll face a battle-hardened Senegalese side.

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🇳🇬 Can the Home Eagles soar high in CHAN 2024? Or will their defensive cracks hold them back?
Drop your predictions below 👇