As anticipation builds for Nigeria’s CHAN 2024 opener against defending champions Senegal, Super Eagles B coach Eric Chelle is keeping emotions in check—and the “derby” talk at bay.

Set to mark Nigeria’s return to the African Nations Championship for the first time since their 2018 silver-medal run, the clash with the Teranga Lions has stirred plenty of buzz. But Chelle, calm and focused, isn’t buying into the hype.

“This isn’t a derby,” he told journalists at Monday’s pre-match press conference. “It’s simply a game between two big football nations with history. Senegal have a good generation and a solid team, and we respect that.”

While Group D also features Congo and Sudan, Chelle made it clear his eyes are locked on one target—Senegal.

“I don’t want to talk about Congo or Sudan right now. Our focus is solely on tomorrow’s match. We’re taking it one step at a time.”

On the team’s readiness, Chelle expressed quiet confidence:
“Our preparation has been good. Now it’s time to put what we’ve worked on into action.”

With the Super Eagles B looking to make a strong return and Senegal out to defend their crown, Tuesday’s encounter may not be a derby—but it promises to be a battle.