CHANS 2024: Home Eagles Crash Out After Heavy Defeat to Sudan

Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles have been knocked out of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a crushing 4-0 loss to Sudan.

The defeat — their second in the tournament after a 1-0 opening game loss to Senegal — confirmed their early exit from the continental showpiece.

There was a glimmer of hope in the 23rd minute when Anthony Ijoma found the back of the net, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Two minutes later, the tide turned as Leonard Ngenege’s own goal handed Sudan the lead.

Just before halftime, Ngenege’s night worsened when he handled the ball inside the box, gifting Sudan a penalty that Walieldin Khidir calmly converted.

In the second half, Sudan tightened their grip on the game as Abdel Raouf Yagoub struck twice in the 55th and 62nd minutes, sealing a humiliating scoreline for the Home Eagles.

Despite the defeat, Nigeria will still face Congo in their final group game next Tuesday — though it will now only be a formality.

Opinion:
This early exit is more than just a bad tournament; it’s a worrying reflection of the struggles facing Nigeria’s domestic football setup. For a country with such a rich football history, crashing out without a single point or goal scored on the scoreboard is simply unacceptable.

While the CHAN is for home-based players, it should be a platform to showcase local talent, not a painful reminder of how far our domestic league lags behind in quality and preparation. The players gave their best, but the lack of cohesion, tactical discipline, and mental resilience was glaring.

If Nigerian football authorities are serious about competing at all levels, investment in the local league, proper coaching, and structured player development must be prioritised. Otherwise, the Home Eagles will keep flying into storms they cannot weather.