Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles lost to Sudan 4-0 in their last group-stage encounter, sending them crashing out of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
The Sudanese squad took advantage of defensive errors and a lack of coordination on the part of the Nigerian team to control the game from beginning to end on Tuesday night. Sudan took a commanding lead with two goals in the first half and added two more in the second half to win by a wide margin.
Nigeria, which had already struggled in its previous group matches, finished last in their group and will not be able to participate in the competition any further due to the outcome. Having last advanced to the final in 2018, the Super Eagles’ dismal record in recent CHAN editions is further compounded by the defeat.
After the game, team coach Eric Chelle was unable to conceal his disgust, admitting that it was the worst game he had ever overseen in his coaching career.
“We have lost all ambition. The CHAN is over for us,” the gaffer was quoted by the official website of the Confederation of African Football.
“We have a third match to play for our honour and respect. But I am disappointed by this match. It is the worst game I’ve overseen from the dugout as coach.”
Chelle said his team made too many mistakes against the Falcons of Sudan.
“The players focused in the first 20 minutes. Our goal was ruled out, and afterwards, we made a lot of mistakes… 4 mistakes, 4 goals,” added the former Mali international.
“Our training session before the game went well. We analyzed Sudan’s team. We prepared well but were not ready for as many mistakes,” the coach added.
The team’s performance has angered supporters, with many demanding a complete roster change and improved training for upcoming competitions. Critics also cited the players’ lack of unity and tactical flaws as major contributors to the crushing loss.
