Nigeria bowed out of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 with pride restored, sealing a 2–0 victory over Congo in their final Group D clash on Tuesday in Dar es Salaam.

The win, however, came too late to rescue their campaign. With Sudan and Senegal battling to a goalless draw in Kampala, both advanced to the quarter-finals on five points apiece, leaving the Super Eagles stranded in third with just three.

Anas Yusuf finally broke Nigeria’s goal drought in the 56th minute before Sikiru Alimi’s stoppage time header secured the result. It was Nigeria’s most assured display of the tournament, a response to the defensive frailties that saw them ship five goals in their opening two matches.

Coach Eric Chelle, who had admitted before kickoff that “mistakes have haunted us,” could only watch as his side’s resurgence arrived too late to matter. Eight key absentees due to overseas transfers forced him into constant reshuffles, and the early stumbles proved decisive.

For Congo, the night ended in heartbreak. Needing all three points to stay alive, Barthelemy Ngatsono’s men squandered chances in the first half and then unravelled in stoppage time. Charles Atipo was sent off after a VAR review, and moments later, Alimi rose highest to bury Nigeria’s second, confirming Congo’s elimination.

Nigeria’s players celebrated their first win, yet the mood was bittersweet. The Super Eagles’ campaign, shaped by inconsistency and missed opportunities, ended with frustration more than satisfaction.

Group D ultimately belonged to Sudan, who edged Senegal to top spot on goal difference (+4 to +1). Both progress unbeaten and armed with defensive steel that will test any contender in the knockout stages.