2024 CHAN qualifier: Five observations from Super Eagles' convincing 3-1 win over Black Galaxies

Nigeria's Super Eagles B team secured their qualification for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) following a convincing 3-1 victory over Ghana in Uyo.

This win marks a significant achievement, as it is the team's first qualification for the tournament in six years, underlining the importance of this triumph for Nigerian football.

Sodiq Ismail opened the scoring for Nigeria, capitalizing on a well-placed floated pass from captain Nduka Jnr.

Ismail skillfully maneuvered through the defense, calmly slotting the ball between the legs of  Ghana's goalkeeper to find the back of the net.

Just four minutes later, Nduka Jnr himself added to Nigeria’s tally, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Ghana.

After a corner kick that the Ghana defense failed to clear effectively, Nduka found himself in a prime position inside the penalty area and struck it home, extending Nigeria’s lead.

In the 24th minute, Saviour Isaac compounded Ghana’s difficulties by scoring Nigeria's third goal.

He intercepted a pass, skillfully beat Benjamin Asare, Ghana’s goalkeeper, and placed the ball confidently into the net.

In the 73rd minute, Stephen Amankuna scored for the Ghanaians, cutting the deficit in the game.

With the victory, Nigeria progressed with an aggregate score of 3-1, having played to a goalless draw in the first leg held in Ghana.  

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the game.

Nduka Jnr leads by example

Nduka Jnr led the Super Eagles B team to a remarkable victory over Ghana in Uyo, delivering an outstanding performance that was pivotal to the team's success.

As a central figure in the defense, Nduka showcased his defensive prowess while also contributing offensively with a goal and an assist.

He initiated the scoring by providing a precise assist for Sodiq Ismail’s opening goal.

Just minutes later, Nduka Jnr demonstrated his attacking capabilities by finding the back of the net himself, striking from inside the penalty area to extend Nigeria's lead.

This impressive display underscored Nduka’s significance as a key player in the squad, highlighting his ability to influence both defensive and offensive plays effectively.

Sikiru Alimi fails to impress

Sikiru Alimi, the Nigerian forward, struggled to make an impact despite the overall strong performance of his team.

Selected to start over Anas Yusuf, the leading goal scorer in the Nigeria Premier Football League, Alimi was given a prime opportunity to shine.

Unfortunately, he was unable to deliver, failing to pose any significant threat to the Ghanaian defense or find the back of the net.

His lackluster showing did not justify the coach's decision to prioritize him in the lineup.

Strong second half performance from Ghana

The Ghanaian team displayed a notably improved performance in the second half after initially struggling against Nigeria, having conceded three goals during the first half to the CHAN Eagles.

The Black Galaxies rallied in the second half, showing considerable determination and competitiveness, managing to score and reduce the deficit.

However, their efforts ultimately fell short, and it was not enough for them to secure qualification for the CHAN tournament.

Papa Daniel shines in midfield

Papa Daniel, the talented midfielder for Niger Tornadoes, stood out in Nigeria's recent clash against Ghana.

His composure and poise in midfield were nothing short of exceptional, making him a pivotal figure in Nigeria's gameplay throughout the match.

Daniel demonstrated remarkable physicality, which allowed him to hold off defenders effectively and maintain possession under pressure.

His ability to make incisive runs into the box added an extra dimension to Nigeria's attacking play, creating scoring opportunities that kept the Ghanaian defense on high alert.

His performances showcased not only technical skill but also a level of maturity that belied his young age.

With such a mature and impactful performance, Papa Daniel has undoubtedly emerged as a player to watch in the upcoming CHAN tournament.

Controversial decisions by referees

Nigeria's victory over Ghana was filled with controversial decisions made by the referee.  

One of the primary points of contention arose when Ghana protested Nigeria's opening goal, claiming that Ismail was in an offside position when he scored.

However, the Moroccan international referee, Hamza El Fariq, ruled otherwise, stating that Ismail was onside and allowed the goal to stand.

As the game progressed, Ghana had another opportunity that they believed would equalize the score.

An effort on goal was made, but Nigerian goalkeeper made a remarkable save, stopping the ball near the touchline.

Ghanaian players and fans vehemently protested, arguing that the ball had crossed the goal line before the goalkeeper's intervention.

Despite the protests, the referee upheld his decision, asserting that the ball had not fully crossed the line, much to the dismay of the Ghanaian squad.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: ghanafa.org

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