National Teams
Bankole, Ijeoma on target as Chelle’s CHAN Eagles defeat Ojodu City in friendly
By Dayo Awoniyi
The home-based Nigeria continued their preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a solid 2–0 victory over Nigeria National League side Ojodu City FC in a warm-up match on Friday.
Goals from Kwara United striker Afeez Bankole and Abia Warriors winger Anthony Ijeoma in each half ensured a comfortable win for Coach Eric Chelle’s side, who looked increasingly cohesive as the CHAN tournament approaches.
Bankole opened the scoring midway through the first half, capping off a sharp attacking sequence with a calm finish inside the box.
Ijeoma sealed the result late in the second half, curling a precise effort into the far corner after sustained pressure in the final third.
The friendly is part of a scheduled series of test matches designed to help Chelle assess tactical discipline, player fitness, and squad chemistry.
The CHAN tournament is exclusively for players active in their national domestic leagues, and Nigeria will be looking to make a strong impact under new leadership.
Coach Chelle, appointed earlier this year to lead Nigeria’s CHAN campaign, expressed satisfaction with the players’ commitment and focus, noting that building rhythm and understanding is crucial at this stage of preparation.
“We are beginning to see signs of cohesion and discipline. The effort from the players today was encouraging,” he said after the match.
The Super Eagles are expected to play additional friendlies against domestic and regional opposition before the final 23-man squad is selected and submitted to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
