Super Eagles B Secure CHAN 2025 Qualification with Convincing Victory Over Ghana

The Super Eagles B of Nigeria have secured their place in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after an emphatic 3-1 victory over Ghana’s Black Galaxies in the second leg of the qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The aggregate scoreline stood at 3-1, cementing Nigeria's dominance in the Jollof Rice rivalry.

First-Half Brilliance Sets the Tone

The match began with Nigeria on the front foot, displaying relentless attacking intent. Sodiq Ismail opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a composed finish, sparking jubilation among the home fans. Just three minutes later, Nduka Junior doubled the lead with a clinical strike, putting Ghana on the back foot.

The Super Eagles were not done yet. Saviour Isaac added a third in the 24th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to give Nigeria a commanding 3-0 lead before halftime. The Black Galaxies struggled to contain the pace and precision of Nigeria’s attack during a frenetic first half.

Ghana’s Resurgence Falls Short

Ghana attempted a comeback in the second half, showing improved coordination and intensity. Stephen Amankuna pulled one back for the visitors in the 73rd minute with a well-taken goal. However, the Nigerian defense held firm, denying Ghana any further inroads.

The victory marked a triumphant return to the CHAN tournament for the Super Eagles B, who last featured in the competition in 2018.

Coaching Brilliance

The success is a testament to the tactical ingenuity of Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, two astute managers from Nigeria’s domestic league. Their collaboration proved pivotal in overcoming a determined and well-prepared Ghanaian side. Ogunmodede, of Remo Stars, and Ilechukwu, of Enugu Rangers, skillfully blended their strategies to guide Nigeria to this crucial victory.

Looking Ahead to CHAN 2025

The CHAN tournament, scheduled to take place in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in February 2025, will feature some of the continent's best home-based talents. Nigeria’s qualification is particularly significant, given their absence from the last two editions. The Super Eagles B will now aim to make a strong impression on the continental stage.

Fans Celebrate a Sweet Victory

Beyond football, the match reignited the long-standing rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, affectionately dubbed the "Jollof Derby." Nigerian fans celebrated the victory as further proof of their superiority in both football and the culinary battle over Jollof Rice.

As the team prepares for the main tournament, optimism is high among Nigerian fans that the Super Eagles B can go all the way and bring the CHAN trophy home. For now, the nation basks in the glory of a well-deserved triumph over their bitter rivals.