NPFL Chairman Confident CHAN Eagles Will Bounce Back Against Sudan

The Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, has expressed strong optimism that Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles will recover from their opening loss at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) and secure victory against Sudan in their next group match.

Nigeria fell 1–0 to defending champions Senegal in their opening Group D fixture, conceding a late goal in the 75th minute. Despite the setback, Elegbeleye insisted that the team was not outplayed and had shown enough quality to suggest they can still progress in the tournament.

“I’m very hopeful. I backed them to bounce back. I’m confident they will beat Sudan and move on from there,” he said, noting that the squad dominated possession and created chances, even though they failed to convert.

The NPFL boss encouraged the players to put the defeat behind them and focus on the remaining fixtures, stressing that their destiny in the tournament remains in their own hands. He also highlighted the importance of the CHAN competition in showcasing talent from Nigeria’s domestic league, adding that the home-based Eagles have the quality and resilience to succeed.

The clash against Sudan is now seen as a must-win for Nigeria if they are to keep their qualification hopes alive, with fans and officials alike expecting a strong response from the team.