Chelle, Appiah talk tough ahead of Nigeria–Sudan CHAN clash
By Tosin Omojola –
Ahead of Tuesday’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group D clash between Nigeria and Sudan, coaches of both teams cautiously shared their thoughts on the encounter.
The match will take place at the 15,000-capacity Amaan Stadium on the island of Zanzibar.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Sekou Chelle admitted after Tuesday’s defeat that his players must give their all to secure a win in order to stand any realistic chance of making it to the knockout rounds in the irregular 19-nation finals.
“I just want to win this game against Sudan; this is my game project. We are under pressure, but we are ambitious and must win tomorrow. This game is the most important for us because a win can bring something good for the team,” Chelle said at Monday’s pre-match press conference.
Sudanese coach Kwesi Appiah also spoke about his team’s readiness for the challenge ahead, saying: “Nigeria is one of the biggest nations in African football and we respect them, but we won’t fear them.
“I don’t believe in any rivalry; this is a game and the best team will win. I have watched only one game of the Nigerian team and can’t assess them based on that. I don’t see any player as a threat, but the entire team.”
The stage is set for a blockbuster showdown at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Tuesday evening, starting at 6 p.m.
