The pressure is on for Nigeria’s Super Eagles B team as they gear up to face Ghana in a critical African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier. For Mohammed Zulkifilu, forward for Kano Pillars, the upcoming fixtures are about more than just team success—they’re personal.

Zulkifilu, who narrowly missed CHAN qualification with the squad last time, is determined to turn the page. “We came close to qualifying last time, and that failure still lingers in my mind,” he revealed in an interview with Brila FM. “This time around, it’s like a personal mission for me and those who still made this team. We can’t afford to fail again; qualifying for the CHAN is non-negotiable.”

The Nigerian squad, which includes both fresh faces and seasoned players, aims to secure their spot at CHAN 2024. Players like Remo Stars’ goalkeeper Kayode Bankole and U-23 prospect Dominion Ohaka bring new energy to the team, while the experience of Abiam Nelson, Aminu Adams, and Sudais Alibaba from Kano Pillars strengthens the core. Assistant coaches Fidelis Ikechukwu and Daniel Amokachi are spearheading an intensive training camp, preparing the team for the two-legged showdown against Ghana.

The decisive matches are scheduled for late December, with Ghana hosting the first leg between December 20–22 and Nigeria hosting the second leg from December 27–29. With stakes high, Zulkifilu’s rallying cry resonates across the camp: “This time, things will be different.”