Nigeria sent packing from CHAN 2025 after thrashing Congo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles finally remembered how to win, but it was too late to save them from crashing out of the CHAN 2025 tournament in Dar es Salaam.

On Tuesday, goals from Anas Yusuf in the 56th minute and Sikiru Alimi deep into stoppage time handed Nigeria a 2–0 victory over Congo in their final Group D match. But the win only served as consolation.

The damage had already been done. Sudan and Senegal played out a 0-0 draw in Kampala, ensuring both sides advanced to the quarter-finals with five points apiece. Nigeria’s three points meant they were sent packing. Congo, bottom with two points, also exited.

For coach Eric Chelle, the triumph was bittersweet. His men had conceded five goals without reply in their opening two games, and by the time they found their rhythm, the door to the knockout stage had already slammed shut.

Congo, desperate for victory, wasted chances and lost their heads late on when Charles Atipo was shown a red card after a VAR review. Moments later, Alimi sealed their fate with a powerful header.

Nigeria leave Tanzania with pride slightly restored but questions lingering. For many fans, one big takeaway remains: the Eagles only woke up after the lights went out.