Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles B finally ended a seven-year winless run at the African Nations Championship with a 2–0 victory over Congo in Dar es Salaam, Footynaija.com reports.
The result, recorded on August 19 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, came too late to save their campaign, but it restored pride after earlier defeats to Senegal and Sudan.
Here is how the Super Eagles B players were rated in the 2–0 win over Congo, according to Sofascore.
Goalkeeper
26. Ebenezer Harcourt – 6.6
Made routine saves when called upon. Had little to do as Congo failed to register a single shot on target.
Defenders
11. Ismaila Sodiq – 6.7
Provided width and delivered the cross that set up Alimi’s late second goal. Balanced in attack and defence.
6. Stephen Manyo – 7.1
Worked tirelessly in transitions, keeping possession ticking. A solid contributor in midfield battles.
4. Nduka Junior (Captain) – 7.2
Led by example in the heart of the team. Kept composure under pressure and ensured discipline across the backline.
13. Taiwo Abdulrafiu – 8.0
Energetic display. Carried the ball forward with confidence and was Nigeria’s main link between defence and attack.
Midfielders
17. Raymond Tochukwu – 7.6
Showed great movement, always stretching Congo’s backline. Created spaces that helped Yusuf and Alimi thrive.
20. Alex Oyowah – 7.6
Pressed intelligently and supported the attack with good runs. A lively partner to Tochukwu up front.
10. Olalekan Adedayo – 6.5
Neat in possession, did not take risks. Stayed disciplined to protect the defence when Nigeria pushed forward.
2. Qudus Akanni – 6.3
Struggled in one-on-one situations but stuck to his role. Substituted late in the match.
Forwards
11. Anas Yusuf – 6.9
Broke the deadlock with a sharp finish inside the box. His opener gave Nigeria the momentum they needed.
18. Alimi Sikiru – 8.5
The standout performer. Dominated in aerial duels and sealed victory with a stoppage-time header. Nigeria’s best player on the day.
Substitutions
18. Hadi Haruna – No rating
Introduced in stoppage time, barely had a touch of the ball.
9. Godwin Obaje – 6.4
Replaced Alimi in added time. Worked hard to press but had little involvement.
Nigeria’s overall performance rating reflected a team that improved with urgency. While Congo still exited with the Super Eagles home-based team, the match was one of the brightest moments of the tournament for Eric Chelle’s men.