Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles have expressed their confidence and determination as preparations intensify ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to kick off on August 2 across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Currently camping in Ikenne under the watch of head coach Eric Chelle, 28 players are in the running for final selection as the team prepares to open its Group D campaign against defending champions Senegal on Tuesday, August 7 at the Amman Stadium in Zanzibar. Nigeria will also face Sudan and Congo in a tightly contested group.
Rangers striker Godwin Obaje is among those pushing for a spot in Chelle’s final squad. The experienced forward says the team has gelled quickly, with the familiar faces from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) helping create a strong bond.
“All of us are like brothers, we know ourselves from the different clubs. It’s normal, meeting ourselves here,” Obaje told Super Eagles Media.
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“I’m looking forward to the tournament. I’m prepared, and we need to give our best. You know Nigeria is one of the best countries in Africa. We are preparing very well.”
Remo Stars midfielder Haruna Hadi, a key part of the club’s title-winning season, also expressed his excitement at finally getting the chance to wear national colours in a major competition.
“I know what I can give. I’m determined, focused, and ready to give my all to the team,” Hadi said.
“It has been my dream to participate in the CHAN and play for the Super Eagles. This is like a dream come true for me—a stepping stone to the next level.”
Kwara United’s Kabiru Mohammed offered insight into the team’s tactical preparations, praising Chelle’s approach to the game.
“He loves aggressive football, and training under him has been intense. He likes his players to press whenever they are not with the ball,” Mohammed said.
Chelle, who took charge of the team earlier this year, has been working to instil his pressing style into the squad as they gear up for a tough test in East Africa. With CHAN being exclusively reserved for players active in their domestic leagues, the tournament presents a major opportunity for Nigeria’s NPFL talents to shine on the continental stage.
The 8th edition of CHAN will run until August 30, with group matches held across Nairobi, Kampala, and Dar es Salaam. Nigeria will be aiming to improve on previous performances and make a strong title push.
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