Nigeria play out 2-2 draw against Zanzibar in final pre-CHAN friendly

Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles, known as the Super Eagles B, concluded their preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Thursday with a 2-2 friendly draw against Zanzibar at the Mao Tse Tung Stadium.

The Super Eagles B broke the deadlock through Anas Yusuf before Adedayo Olamilekan doubled the lead for Nigeria before the break, giving them a comfortable lead.

However, Zanzibar, in the second half, mounted a spirited comeback to level the score in what became an exciting and hard-fought encounter.

Coach Eric Chelle made five changes to Nigeria’s starting eleven that played out a goalless draw against the same opposition on Monday. He made five changes to the starting eleven and fielded his entire bench, ensuring every player had a taste of match action.

This closely contested match served as a crucial final tune-up for the Nigerian squad, just days before the continental tournament kicks off.

Nigeria, who were runners-up in the 2018 edition of CHAN, are drawn in Group D for the 2024 tournament and will open their group campaign against defending champions Senegal, before playing Sudan and Congo Brazzaville.

The tournament to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania kicks off from 2 to 30 August 2025.