Congo will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles B in their final Group D match of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with all eyes on a place in the next round, Footynaija.com reports.
The game comes with both sides under pressure after mixed results in the group. Nigeria, already eliminated following defeats to Senegal and Sudan, will be playing for pride.
Eric Chelle’s men have conceded five goals without scoring, a run that has raised questions about the strength of the Nigeria Premier Football League in producing competitive talent.
For Congo, however, the clash represents an opportunity to stamp their authority and push for qualification. The central African nation knows that victory secures their progress. With Senegal already dominant in the group, Congo need three points to keep their campaign alive and maintain hope of a strong run in the knockout stages.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the match, Congo’s coach Barthelemy Ngatsono has said that nothing short of a win would be acceptable.
“There is no alternative to victory. We respect Nigeria, but they are like a wounded lion,” he said, as quoted by Pulse Sports.
Ngatsono warned his players that Nigeria would not roll over easily.
“They will play with pride, so we must be sharper and stay focused,” he added, highlighting the importance of discipline and concentration against a side desperate to restore confidence.
The coach concluded with a rallying call, stressing that determination would carry Congo forward.
“Everything will be decided on the pitch. We have the spirit and determination to get the result we need.”