As Nigerians mourn the ouster of Nigeria from the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Rwanda, let us remind us of the guys who first represented Nigeria in the tournament and gave a good showing. CHAN started in 2009 and is held every two years alternating with African Cup of Nations. Nigeria’s maiden appearance was at the 2014 edition held in South Africa. The home based Super Eagles were coached by Stephen Keshi as at then. Nigeria played in Group A alongside Mali, South Africa and Mozambique. The Super Eagles lost 2 – 1 to Mali in their opening game but went ahead to defeat Mozambique 4 – 2 in their second game. Nigeria later defeated hosts South Africa 3 – 1 in the last group game to qualify for the quarterfinal behind Mali. Nigeria’s quarterfinal game against Morocco was dramatic as Morocco led by three goals before Nigeria equalized and won 4 – 3 in a match that went into extra time. Nigeria would go on to meet a 10-man Ghana in the semi final and after a 0 – 0 normal time, Ghana won 4 – 1 during penalty shoot out. Nigeria defeated Zimbabwe 1 – 0 in the third place match to win the bronze medal.

Nigeria’s Ejike Uzoenyi was voted the tournaments Most Valuable Player. Uzoenyi also scored three goals same as Rabiu Ali. Bernard Parker of South Africa was the highest goal scorer with four goals. The tournament itself was won by Libya who defeated Ghana 4 – 3 after penalty shoot out. The normal time had ended 0 – 0.

The Super Eagles Squad of CHAN 2014:

Chigozie Agbim (Captain)

Daniel Akpeyi

Dele Alampasu

Azubuike Egwuekwe

Solomon Kwambe

Francis Benjamin

Umar Zango

Kunle Odunlami

Bright Esieme

Ikechukwu Gabriel

Erhun Obanor

Ikenna Hillary

Shehu Abdullahi

Ejike Uzoenyi

Uzochukwu Ugonna

Rabiu Ali

Joshua Obaje

Barnabas Imenger Jnr.

Ifeanyi Edeh

Christian Pyagbara

Christian Obiozor

Gbolahan Salami

Aliyu Ibrahim

Coach: Stephen Keshi