Nigeria’s Super Eagles B bowed out of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations tournament with their pride intact after beating the Red Devils of Congo in their final group stage match, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria went into the game with nothing left but pride to play for, having crashed out of the competition following consecutive defeats against Senegal and Sudan in their first two games in Tanzania.
Eric Chelle’s boys dominated proceedings for the majority of the game and they got their reward ten minutes into the second half when Anas Yusuf scored from close range. Sikiru Alimi added a second late on after Congo had been reduced to ten men.
As the home-based Eagles pack their bags and prepare for their return to Nigeria, here are five key takeaways from the game.
5. Flawless defensive performance from Nigeria
The Super Eagles put in a disciplined defensive shift compared to their two previous games against Senegal and Sudan. Importantly, they did not concede a single shot on target, despite Congo managing 20 touches in Nigeria’s box. Eric Chelle’s deployment of Stephen Manyo in place of Leonard Ngenge proved to be a masterstroke as the home-based Eagles’ backline ensured that young Ebenezer Harcourt had a quiet evening in goal without needing to make a save.
4. Nigeria’s dominance finally pays off
Eric Chelle’s home-based Eagles suffered defeats in their first two games against Senegal and Sudan despite dominating possession in both games. However, they managed to make their dominance count in this game mainly thanks to the tireless efforts of their young and energetic midfield duo Alex Oyowah and Raymond Tochukwu.
3. The forward line finally deliver the goods
The Super Eagles B had endured a shockingly toothless campaign in front of goal heading into this tie. They not only suffered defeats in their first two group games, they also failed to find the back of the net. However, they found joy in this game against Congo with Anas Yusuf and Sikiru Alimi providing the cutting edge to Eric Chelle’s attack on the night.
2. Nigeria exit CHAN with their heads held high
Today’s win takes nothing away from the fact that the home-based Super Eagles endured a terrible outing at this year’s edition of the African Nations Championship. Initially regarded as one of the top contenders to win the tournament, they find themselves on their way home at the conclusion of the group stage. However, with this performance and victory against Congo, Eric Chelle’s Eagles can at least hold their heads up as they return to their homeland.
1. Eric Chelle’s system was never the problem
Today’s game was solid proof that the tactical setup of Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle was never the issue. The execution from his players was always the home-based Eagles’ achilles heel. Defensive unassuredness also contributed to a very large extent in their defeats to Senegal and Sudan. This victory will do the Franco-Malian’s confidence a world of good ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers.