CHAN EAGLE SCALE LYBIA

The home-based Super Eagles face Equatorial Guinea on Tuesday knowing they are just a step away from Nigeria’s second-ever quarter-final berth at the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

In this ongoing fifth edition of the competition in Morocco, newcomers Equatorial Guinea stand between them and a place in the knock out round in their final group game at Agadir.

You would agree that after a disappointing barren draw against Rwanda on Monday, the Eagles have not appeared with the intent to take charge of the group.

A lone goal victory against Libya on Friday helped to displace the table-toppers, and they now only need to avoid defeat against Equatorial Guinea to progress.

They should be aware that a loss is dangerous, as Libya can go on to draw with Rwanda for both sides to advance ahead of Nigeria on goals difference.

But a win is necessary on Tuesday to get to seven points and an opportunity to head into the last eight as group leaders.

The task before the Eagles may however look quite easy, but with Rwanda looking hot and just a point separating Libya from the joint table-table toppers, the Eagles cannot afford any slip-up.

The Amavubis would be nursing the very lofty ambition of finishing top of the group so as to avoid meeting Group D winners who could be any of their regional rivals.

Libya, after a bright start, will fight till the last with the hope that Nigeria will slip up.

The Eagles therefore must avoid any form of complacency and affirm their qualification by winning Group C, and only a massive win over Equatorial Guinea can ensure this.

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