Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles, the CHAN Eagles, continued their flawless build-up to the 2024 African Nations Championship with an impressive 3-1 win over Ikorodu City on Monday evening in Ikenne-Remo.
Despite falling behind to an early opener from the Eko International Cup champions, the Eagles showed grit and quality to claim a commanding win. It is now three victories from three warm-up matches for the CHAN Eagles under head coach Eric Chelle.
Ikorodu City stunned the hosts just five minutes into the contest, capitalising on a sluggish defensive start.
But the Eagles responded quickly. Defender Junior Nduka levelled the score in the 9th minute with a well-taken free-kick laid off by the lively Haruna Hadi, restoring calm in the Nigerian camp.
The first half ended 1-1, with both sides showing tactical discipline. However, the second half belonged to the CHAN Eagles, who shifted into another gear.
Anthony Ijoma completed a sweeping move that started from goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena, driving home in the 66th minute to put Nigeria ahead. His combination with Sikiru Alimi and Michael Tochukwu added flair and fluidity to the Eagles’ attack.
Twelve minutes later, Ijoma turned provider. His intelligent play set up Alimi to slot home the third, wrapping up a confident display in front of a vibrant Ikenne crowd.
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The result means Eric Chelle’s side have now beaten Remo Stars, Ojodu City, and Ikorodu City, scoring six goals and conceding just one across the three fixtures.
With just hours to go before his final 24-man squad announcement, Chelle would be pleased with the response from his players.
Nigeria now shift focus to a high-profile friendly against APR FC, Rwandan league champions, in Kigali on July 29, before moving to Zanzibar for the final leg of preparations.
The African Nations Championship will be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda with the opening match slated for August 2.
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele
Imhonlamhen Eronmhonsele turns into a ball of passion when writing about Nigerian football and its talents, whether rising stars or established legends, locally and abroad.
From the deepest corners of the Middle East, to the green fields of the Americas, to the celebrated grounds in Europe, and the rich soils of Africa, Imhons is more than glad, usually with a glass of a tasty drink nearby, to capture the essence of the game, by connecting the dots between culture, identity, and football.