CHAN 2016: Group C wide open ahead of decisive final matches
The most finely balanced group of the 2016 African Nations Championship (CHAN) reaches its climax on Tuesday, with all four teams still in contention for a place in the quarter-finals.
Group C has so far provided drama and unpredictability, and as the final round of matches approaches, no side has yet secured qualification. Nigeria head into the decisive fixtures in pole position with four points, needing only a draw against Guinea to guarantee their progression.
Guinea, on two points, face a must-win scenario. Failure to claim victory would leave them vulnerable to elimination, as both Tunisia and Niger remain within touching distance.
The day’s second encounter sees Tunisia, also on two points, take on Niger, who sit bottom of the group with just a single point. Despite their precarious position, Niger are not yet out of the running. A win against the Carthage Eagles could be enough to propel them into the last eight, though their preparations have been hampered by a spate of injuries.
Tunisia, meanwhile, will look to their in-form striker Ahmed Akaichi, who has already netted three times in the tournament. His firepower could prove decisive as the North Africans bid to avoid an early exit.
The stakes are clear: every team has something to play for, and the margins are razor-thin. The final standings could hinge not only on results but also on goal difference, underlining just how competitive Group C has been.
**Fixtures (GMT):**
* Nigeria v Guinea (14:00)
* Tunisia v Niger (14:00)
With all to play for, Tuesday’s clashes promise high tension and could deliver some of the most dramatic football of the tournament so far.
