Nigeria’s hopes at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) ended abruptly after the Super Eagles B team suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Sudan on Tuesday, marking their second consecutive loss in the group stage. The result, following a 1-0 opening loss to Senegal, left the home-based squad with zero points and eliminated them from contention ahead of their final match against Congo.
Sudan dominated the fixture, securing their victory with an own goal from Nigeria’s Leonard Ngenge and additional strikes by Walieldin Khedr and a brace from Abdel Raouf. The lopsided scoreline amplified frustrations among Nigerian fans, who took to social media to voice sharp criticism of the team’s performance, tactical approach, and broader implications for domestic football development.
On X (formerly Twitter), reactions ranged from dismay to searing rebuke. User @PoojaMedia labeled the loss a “monumental disgrace,” while @di_untouchable called for Coach Eric Chelle’s resignation, arguing the team’s display validated skepticism about relying on homegrown talent. Others dissected on-field shortcomings: @wale_chips criticized the lack of midfield structure, and @TOLA_AYANFE lamented defensive errors and poor passing. A satirical post by @OseremenPrince humorously suggested authorities “arrest” the team for “wasting resources” and tarnishing Nigeria’s reputation as the “Giant of Africa.”
The backlash reflects heightened expectations for the Super Eagles, a source of national pride, even in regional tournaments. CHAN, exclusively featuring players from domestic leagues, is often viewed as a platform to showcase local talent. However, Nigeria’s early exit—marking their worst group-stage performance in the competition’s history—has reignited debates about coaching decisions, player selection, and investment in grassroots football.
Amid the criticism, a few users, like @Welly_Marshall, struck a conciliatory tone, urging support for future efforts. Meanwhile, the team’s final match against Congo next Tuesday, now a dead rubber, offers little consolation for fans demanding accountability and reform.
The Football Federation has yet to issue an official statement, but the outcry underscores the growing disconnect between Nigeria’s footballing ambitions and its developmental realities, with analysts highlighting systemic issues such as inadequate funding and infrastructure. As the continent’s most populous nation grapples with this setback, the focus shifts to whether lessons from CHAN 2024 will catalyze meaningful change ahead of future tournaments.
