Nigeria’s assistant coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, has reflected on the team’s hard-fought qualification for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a tournament the country will return to after a six-year absence.
The Super Eagles secured their place in the competition following a 3-1 aggregate victory over fierce rivals Ghana.
The triumph marked an important milestone for Nigeria, as they look to rebuild their presence in continental football.
Speaking to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) media, Ogunmodede discussed the strategies that led to the team’s success against the Black Galaxies, acknowledging the historical context of the rivalry.
“History is not in our favour with these countries, so we decided not to focus on the past,” Ogunmodede said.
The phrase emphasizes the need for the current generation of players to forge their own legacy, unburdened by previous challenges or setbacks.
Instead of dwelling on past encounters with Ghana, Ogunmodede and the coaching staff shifted their focus towards the present, placing emphasis on the future.
We are focused on the present and the future,” he continued.
We know that if we qualify, we have a bright future ahead of us, for the players, the coaches, and the future generations of footballers in Nigeria.
The assistant coach’s remarks highlight the importance of this qualification not just as an immediate achievement, but as a stepping stone for the country’s football development.
Ogunmodede stressed the need to foster a positive football environment, one where the success of the national team can inspire further growth at all levels of the sport in Nigeria.
We have to give everything to become a good market for the league,” Ogunmodede stated, alluding to the crucial role of local football in the broader development of the national team.
He concluded with a call for accountability, asserting, “To whom much is given, much must be expected.
The victory against Ghana marks an important return to the CHAN tournament for Nigeria, which has been a significant event for players based in the domestic league.
With the team’s qualification, Nigeria will look forward to participating in a competition that can provide vital international experience to players outside of Europe’s top leagues, contributing to the overall strength and depth of Nigerian football.
