CHAN 2024 Group D battle: Oumar Ba, Nduka, and four other key players to watch

It is no longer news that the Super Eagles B team has been slated to tackle Senegal, Sudan, and Congo at the 8th African Nations Championship tournament, Soccernet.ng reports.

Meanwhile, only two teams will have the ticket to progress to the next round of the tournament, with defending Champions Senegal, and the returning CHAN Eagles, seeming to be the favourites to advance to the next round.

Despite these, some key players will be crucial in helping their team secure good points to progress to the next round. Soccernet.ng takes a look at the players to watch as they battle in August

1. Oumar Ba (Forward, Senegal)

The US Goree forward was crucial for the Senegalese during their 2024 CHAN qualifications scoring a goal in just one match played. With his quick decision-making, Ba will be a nightmare for defenders and a key player in Senegal’s attack as they aim to retain their CHAN crown.

Notre joueur Oumar Ba a été convoqué en équipe nationale locale pour représenter notre pays lors du match aller des barrages qualificatifs du CHAN 2025 ce 22 décembre au Libéria.
Toute la famille du club est derrière lui et l’équipe.
Bonne chance, Oumar, et ramenez la victoire! pic.twitter.com/ScQWcRx7zo

— US GOREE FOOT SA (@usgoreefootsa) December 18, 2024

2. Baye Assane Ciss (Midfielder, Senegal)

Ciss is another player to watch in the upcoming tournament, having the ability to control the game’s tempo. Ciss was on Senegal’s goal account during their qualification, and his precise passing and quick transitions between defence and attack were also crucial. His performance will be central to Senegal’s efforts to dominate their group.

3. Mohamed Abdel Rahman ‘Al-Ghorbal’ (Forward, Sudan)

The striker from Al-Hilal is the third-highest scorer for Sudan and a veteran of both domestic and international football. His vast experience and knack for scoring critical goals make him Sudan’s key figure in their quest for success.

4. Chelcy Bonazebi (Goalkeeper, Congo)

Standing tall at 1.97m, Red Star’s goalkeeper Chelcy Bonazebi is a commanding presence in the box. His exceptional reflexes are one to watch, and his calmness under pressure makes him the backbone of Congo’s defence.

CHELCY PRINCE EXAUCE BONAZEBI (2006) WITH A MASSIVE SAVE!!!#TotalEnergiesAFCONU17 #AFCONU17 #CGOALG pic.twitter.com/8Vnnz9Qa5U

— Football Report (@FootballReprt) May 5, 2023

5. Junior Nduka (Midfielder, Nigeria)

Captain of the CHAN Eagles, Junior Nduka brings goal-scoring ability to the Daniel Ogunmodede-led side. His experience and ability to rally the team will be critical in their campaign to claim their first CHAN title.

6. Anas Yusuf (Forward, Nigeria)

The top scorer in the Nigerian Premier League, Anas Yusuf is a constant threat in front of goal. With sharp instincts and clinical finishing, Yusuf is a player opponents will struggle to contain in Group D.