Nigeria’s hopes at the 2024 African Nations Championship may have already ended, but head coach Eric Chelle has urged his home-based Super Eagles to step onto the pitch with renewed determination when they face Congo in their final group match on Tuesday.

After back-to-back defeats — a narrow 1-0 loss to Senegal and a crushing 4-0 defeat to Sudan — the clash against Congo has been reduced to a dead rubber for Nigeria. Still, Chelle insists the game presents an opportunity to restore pride and give fans something positive before returning home.

For Congo, however, the stakes remain high. Sitting on two points, they must secure victory to have any chance of progressing, with Senegal and Sudan already on four points each.

Addressing the media ahead of the encounter, Chelle hinted at possible changes to his lineup, stressing the need for players to show character despite the disappointment.

> “For this game there will be changes because we lost two games, and we need to change something,” Chelle said. “It’s difficult mentally because the tournament is over for us. But tomorrow’s game is one where the players can try to correct their mistakes. As professionals, they must stay focused and show their qualities.”

The Super Eagles B will now seek to end their campaign with dignity, hoping to deliver a spirited performance even as they bow out of the competition.