As Nigeria’s Super Eagles B gear up to face defending champions Senegal in their opening match of the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, both team captain Junior Nduka and head coach Éric Chelle are speaking confidently about Nigeria’s momentum in other sports.
Junior Nduka highlighted the high hopes surrounding the team, thanks to Nigeria's recent triumphs in women's football and basketball.
 |
| Senegal Vs Nigeria |
“Our female team just won the WAFCON, and the women’s basketball team also claimed the African title. It’s a good record for the country, and we hope to continue that success,” he said during a pre‑match briefing in Zanzibar.
Coach Chelle has emphasized staying focused only on the first game:
“I don’t want to talk about Congo or Sudan for now... our focus is on Senegal. We’ll take it step by step,” he said, downplaying hype about a rivalry and urging concentration on implementation of their preparations
He framed the match as a high-stakes contest between two established footballing nations in Africa, rather than an emotional derby, describing Senegal as a strong team with athleticism and tactical discipline.
This will be the first-ever CHAN meeting between Nigeria and Senegal. Nigeria returns to the tournament for the first time since 2018; they were runners-up that year, while Senegal won the title in 2022.
The Nigerian squad for CHAN comprises only players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). They face a tough match against a Senegalese side known for its physical strength and tactical awareness.
Event: CAF African Nations Championship 2024 – Group B opener
Teams: Nigeria vs Senegal
Date & Venue: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar
With a strong national spirit behind them and intense preparation on the field, Nigeria hopes to make a winning start and build momentum in the tournament.
0 Comments