The home-based Super Eagles finally found their rhythm tonight as they wrapped up their 2024 CHAN campaign with a 2-0 victory over Congo in their last Group D fixture.
Despite the win, Nigeria bowed out of the tournament in third place with three points. Sudan topped the group after holding defending champions Senegal to a stalemate, while Congo finished bottom with two points.
Remo Stars’ forward Sikiru Alimi was the star of the night, setting up the opening goal before sealing the win in added time.
His clever knockdown in the 56th minute gave NPFL top scorer Anas Yusuf the chance to fire home on his first start of the tournament.
Congo’s hopes faded further when Atipo was sent off for a reckless challenge on Alimi late in the game.
The striker made them pay almost immediately, diving low to head home Nigeria’s second in stoppage time.
Teenage goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, handed his senior debut, enjoyed a quiet evening between the sticks as Congo struggled to threaten.
It was a deserved victory for the CHAN Eagles, who finally broke their scoring duck in the competition and bowed out with pride intact.