CHAN Eagles defender Nduka Junior has shared insights into the team’s mood and level of preparedness following their recent friendly match against his club side, Remo Stars.

The Remo Stars center-back acknowledged the tough opposition posed by his club, which currently sits atop the Nigerian league standings.

Despite the challenge, he emphasized the significance of their 2-1 victory in building team spirit ahead of the crucial double-header against Ghana.

Speaking to Brila.net, Nduka expressed confidence in the team’s focus and determination.

“We played against Remo Stars Football Club, a team that is top of the log in the country.

They gave us a good fight, and for us to have won 2-1, it shows our level of concentration, the team spirit we have, and how we want to approach the two-legged game this month.”

He added, “The boys are fully prepared and understand what’s at stake. It’s just like an FA Cup match for us—there’s no second chance.”

In the meantime, veteran Kano Pillars star Rabiu Ali will captain the 18-man CHAN Eagles squad for the first-leg playoff against Ghana’s Black Galaxies in Accra on Sunday.

The return leg is scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, December 28.

The aggregate winner of the tie will secure a spot at the 8th African Nations Championship, set to take place across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda from February 1 to 28, 2025.