The Super Eagles B team resumed training on Tuesday evening at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium training pitch in Uyo, with 19 players in attendance, Nigeriasoccernet.com writes.
The session marked the beginning of intensive preparations for the decisive second-leg match against Ghana's Black Galaxies in the 2025 Championship of African Nations (CHAN) qualifiers.
Despite the festive season, the team will forgo the Christmas holidays to maintain focus on the critical encounter. On Wednesday, December 25th, the players will hold another training session at the same venue, with an increased squad size as five players previously unavailable for the first-leg trip to Ghana are expected to join their teammates.
A Tight Qualification Race
The home-based Eagles face a challenging task after their goalless draw in the first leg, played in Accra. With no away goal advantage, the Nigerian side must secure an outright victory in the return leg to earn the coveted CHAN ticket. The overall winner of the two-legged tie will represent the WAFU B region at the biennial CHAN tournament.
Key Match Details
- Fixture: Nigeria vs. Ghana
- Venue: Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo
- Date: Saturday, December 28th
- Time: 5:00 PM
Importance of CHAN Participation
The Championship of African Nations is a prestigious tournament organized exclusively for players plying their trade in their home countries. Nigeria’s Super Eagles B have a strong history in the competition, having reached the final in 2018, and will be eager to reassert their dominance in African football by securing their spot in the 2025 edition.
Team Dynamics and Strategy
Head coach Salisu Yusuf has emphasized the importance of tactical discipline and teamwork in overcoming the Ghanaians. With the addition of key players who missed the first leg, the team’s attacking and defensive options are expected to improve. Fans are optimistic about the squad's chances, given the home advantage and the team's determination to deliver results.
Oluwayemi Omolagba