Nigeria will play for pride when they face DR Congo in their final Group D clash at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday.
Already eliminated after two straight defeats, the Super Eagles will be seeking redemption in a fixture that still carries weight for both sides.
Head coach Eric Sekou Chelle acknowledged the disappointment but urged his team to finish strong.
“We want to end the competition with a victory,” Chelle explained. “We haven’t scored yet, and this game is our chance to put things right.”
Nigeria have conceded five goals without reply in their two matches so far. Chelle admitted responsibility for the team’s struggles but stressed the importance of lifting morale.
“Of course, I take responsibility as coach. But now it’s about lifting morale. We must return home with something positive,” he said.
The coach also pointed to the disruption caused by the loss of key players prior to the tournament.
“Eight of our players from the qualifiers left. That’s 80% of the squad gone. We had to rebuild on the fly,” Chelle lamented.
Despite the setbacks, he views the clash with Congo as an opportunity for his squad to show resilience.
“Football is about learning lessons. We must show our positive side now,” he urged, hinting at small tactical adjustments for the match.
Team captain Junior Nduka echoed the coach’s sentiments, promising a determined fight in the Super Eagles’ farewell game.
“We need a win for the country. We’ll give everything against Congo,” Nduka declared. “The two defeats affected us, but we must bounce back.”
For Congo, the stakes are higher as their progression could hinge on the result of the other Group D fixture between Sudan and Senegal.
However, they know they cannot afford to underestimate Nigeria, who are determined to bow out with dignity.
With pride on the line for the Super Eagles and qualification hopes alive for Congo, the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is set for a dramatic finale to Group D action, action starts by 6 pm West Africa time.
Sports247.ng
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