Nigeria’s Super Eagles B coach Eric Chelle has defended his final 23-man squad for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) following criticism over the dominance of players from NPFL champions Remo Stars.
The final list which was released last month sparked debate over the inclusion of eight players from Remo Stars, where Chelle’s assistant coach is also based.
But Chelle dismissed any notion of bias, insisting the selections were based on tactical suitability.
“Who won the league last season? If you look at Morocco, many of their players come from Raja and Wydad. In Angola, most of the players are from their best team. Even in South Africa, there are eight players from just one club,” Chelle told the team’s media.
Super Eagles B captain Junior Nduka. Photo Credit: X
“This is not because my assistant is from Remo Stars. I have a philosophy, I want to keep the ball, dominate possession, and apply pressure when we don’t have it. So, I need players who can fit into that philosophy.”
Chelle stressed that his responsibility is to select the best players who fit his game model, regardless of public opinion.
“There are many good players, but as the coach, I must select those who can deliver my game plan. I also need to build something solid with this group. The truth is, we have the best players in this team.”
Eric Chelle in training with the Super Eagles B ahead of the 2024 CHAN. Photo Credit: X
The Super Eagles B team, silver medallists in 2018 and bronze winners in 2014, will compete in Group D alongside defending champions Senegal, Sudan, and Congo at CHAN 2024.
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This year’s tournament is co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from 2 to 30 August, and is exclusively reserved for players active in their respective national leagues.
Nigeria Squad for 8th CHAN Tournament
Goalkeepers:
Henry Ozoemena Ani (Enyimba FC), Nurudeen Badmus (Kwara United), Lawal Mustapha (Shooting Stars)
Defenders:
Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars), Bankole Afeez (Kwara United), Taiwo Abdulrafiu (Rivers United), Uzondu Harrison (Ikorodu City), Junior Harrison Nduka (Remo Stars), Ngengen Leonard (Ikorodu City), Steven Mayo Egbe (Rivers United)
Midfielders:
Adedayo Olamilekan (Remo Stars), Hadi Haruna (Remo Stars), Otaniyi Taofik (Rivers United), Akanni Qudus (Remo Stars), Michael Tochukwu (Remo Stars), Alex Oyowah (Remo Stars)
Forwards:
Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United), Shola Adelani (Ikorodu City), Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars), Temitope Vincent (Plateau United), Ijoma Anthony (Abia Warriors), Godwin Obaje (Rangers International) Jabbar Malik (Remo Stars).
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Nigeria will open their CHAN 2024 campaign against Senegal on Sunday, with expectations high for a strong performance in East Africa.
