Super Eagles B stand-in coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, has emphasized the significance of securing qualification for the 2025 African Nations Championship, CHAN, not just for the players and coaches but also for Nigeria’s reputation as Africa’s football powerhouse.

The CHAN Eagles played out a goalless draw against the Black Galaxies of Ghana at the Accra International Stadium on Sunday, setting the stage for a decisive second leg.

Speaking to Brila FM ahead of the return fixture, Ogunmodede, who also coaches Remo Stars, highlighted the broader importance of qualifying for next year’s tournament, including its potential to enhance the value of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.

“This is Nigeria, the giant of Africa for obvious reasons,” Ogunmodede said.

“We understand how critical this is for our local players and the structure the federation and sports commission are building.

It’s vital for the young players coming through, for us as coaches, I’m an indigenous coach and for the nation’s football legacy.

We want to go one step ahead of where we were last time.”

The return leg is scheduled for Saturday, December 28, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. A win of any margin will see Nigeria book their spot in the 2025 CHAN tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from February 1 to 28.

Victory in Uyo would mark a significant step forward for Nigerian football and reaffirm the nation’s status as a dominant force on the continent.