“They know the boys inside out” – AFCON winner unveils the secret behind Nigeria’s CHAN return

Nigeria’s return to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a six-year absence is due to the expertise and deep understanding of local players by the technical team, according to 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner Sylvanus Okpala, Soccernet.ng reports.

The home-based coaching duo of Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu led the Super Eagles’ B team to a memorable qualification campaign.

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After a goalless first-leg draw at the Accra Sports Stadium on December 22, the team sealed their ticket with a commanding 3-1 victory over Ghana’s Black Galaxies in the return leg at Uyo's Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

The victory not only ended Nigeria’s CHAN drought but rekindled hopes for a strong showing at the 2025 tournament.

1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner Okpala lavished praise on the coaches, highlighting their familiarity with the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) players.

“One great thing for the team is that those handling the home-based Eagles have been in the league for the past 3-5 years,” Okpala told Brila.

“They know the boys inside out, having played against them and studied their strengths, weaknesses, and characteristics.”

The former international emphasised the importance of trusting Nigerian coaches, adding,

“This is not the first time we’ve qualified for CHAN, but it’s a significant achievement after years of missing out.”

The CHAN tournament, reserved exclusively for players competing in Africa’s domestic leagues, will take place from February 1 to 28, 2025, across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

While technical director Austin Eguavoen is expected to lead the squad, Ogunmodede and Ilechukwu will likely play pivotal roles in shaping the team’s fortunes.

Both coaches boast impressive credentials.

Ogunmodede, 44, holds a UEFA A Licence and previously served as assistant manager at Portuguese side Feirense.

Ilechukwu, 46, brings a wealth of NPFL experience, having managed MFM, Heartland FC, and Plateau United before steering Enugu Rangers to the league title in his debut season in 2023, ending the club’s eight-year wait for silverware.

With such pedigree and passion at the helm, expectations are high for Nigeria to make a mark at CHAN 2025.