CHAN: Eric Chelle explains Super Eagles loss to Sudan, warns of heavier defeat to Congo

Nigeria's Super Eagles B suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Sudan in their second game of the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Head coach Eric Chelle has come under criticism following his post-match comments after the game.

In a statement by the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF), Chelle attributed the defeat to a disastrous 20-minute spell early in the match.

Ghanaian head coach of Sudan Kwesi Appiah said before the match that he expected a good result.

Nigeria suffered a loss to defending champions Senegal to start the tournament.

Due to the squad's weakness from player departures, Nigeria's campaign was already in jeopardy.

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Chelle explained the problems with the team that lead to the defeat.

He said, “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.

"Our training session before the game went well. We analyzed Sudan’s team. We prepared well, but were not ready for as many mistakes.

“Though some important players left our preparations camp, these were the best players in our league.

"We can't play a game like that and lose in the manner we did. We need to be more focused.

“We have lost all ambition. The CHAN is over for us. 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.”

The Super Eagles were already under pressure after Congo and Senegal battled to a 1-1 draw.

Now they are out of the competition, Chelle warns that the game against Congo could be worse than four goals conceded.

He said, “If we play this way against Congo, it wouldn’t be just four.

"We have to clear our minds and mentally get ready for Congo.”

The Super Eagles have been knocked out of the tournament and will play their last game against Congo on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.