Nigeria vs Congo: 2025 CHAN group D match preview, prediction
Nigeria vs Congo in final group D match of 2025 CHAN tournament. Photo Credit- Author’s collage
The 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) group stage concludes with a clash between Nigeria and Congo on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, by 6 PM (WAT), at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This Group D fixture is a battle for pride for Nigeria, who have already been eliminated, while Congo still have a slim chance of advancing to the knockout rounds. Here’s a detailed preview of the match, including team performances, tactics, predicted lineups, and a scoreline prediction.
Nigeria team performances
The Super Eagles have had a disappointing return to the CHAN tournament after a seven-year absence. Under coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria has struggled, losing both of their group stage matches without scoring a single goal. In their opener, they fell 1-0 to defending champions Senegal, and in their second match, they were humiliated 4-0 by Sudan, with an own goal by Leonard Ngenge and a brace from Abdelrazig Omer exposing defensive frailties.Nigeria’s lackluster performances have left them at the bottom of Group D with zero points and a goal difference of -5. Their elimination from the tournament was confirmed after the Sudan defeat, marking their second group-stage exit in CHAN history. The team has struggled to convert chances, with no goals in 180 minutes of play, and their defense has been porous, conceding five goals. Despite a talented 35-man provisional squad featuring NPFL stars like Anas Yusuf and Sodiq Ismaila, Nigeria has failed to gel as a unit.
Congo team form
Congo, on the other hand, remain in contention for a knockout stage berth, though their chances are slim. They have drawn both of their Group D matches: a 1-1 stalemate against Sudan and another 1-1 draw against Senegal, with Layousse Samb’s late equalizer against the defending champions earning them a valuable point. With two points from two games, Congo sit third in the group, two points behind Senegal and Sudan. To advance, they must win against Nigeria and hope for favorable results in the other Group D match (Sudan vs. Senegal) to avoid a three-way tiebreaker.Congo have shown resilience, remaining unbeaten in their last five CHAN matches (four draws). However, their inability to secure victories highlights a lack of cutting edge in attack. Their defense has been relatively solid, conceding only two goals, but they need to be more clinical in front of goal to capitalize on Nigeria’s vulnerabilities.
Nigeria tactical analysis
Coach Eric Chelle is likely to stick with a 4-2-3-1 formation, which has been Nigeria’s go-to setup in the tournament, though it has failed to yield results. The Super Eagles have struggled with cohesion, particularly in the final third, where their attacking players have lacked creativity and finishing. The midfield has been overrun, with opponents exploiting gaps left by an overly aggressive pressing game. Defensively, Nigeria’s backline has been shaky, with errors leading to goals, as seen in the own goal against Sudan.Chelle may opt for a more conservative approach against Congo, focusing on shoring up the defense to avoid another heavy defeat. Expect Nigeria to sit deeper and look to counterattack, relying on the pace of forwards like Anas Yusuf to exploit spaces behind Congo’s defense. However, their lack of confidence and poor form could hinder their ability to execute this strategy effectively.
Congo tactics
Congo have employed a 4-3-3 formation, emphasizing a balanced approach with a focus on wing play and quick transitions. Their equalizer against Senegal showcased their ability to stay composed under pressure, with Layousse Samb proving a threat up top. Congo’s midfield, likely led by a disciplined trio, will aim to control possession and limit Nigeria’s counterattacking opportunities. Their defense, anchored by a compact back four, has been relatively solid but will need to be wary of Nigeria’s desperation to score their first goal of the tournament. Tactically, Congo will look to dominate the midfield and exploit Nigeria’s fragile backline with quick passes and movement off the ball. They are likely to target the flanks, where Nigeria’s fullbacks have struggled, and rely on Samb to convert any chances created.
Nigeria vs Congo head-to-head statistics
This will be the first meeting between Nigeria and Congo at the CHAN level, but historically, Nigeria lead the overall head-to-head record 6-3 across 11 matches. Given Nigeria’s current form, however, past encounters may have little bearing on this match. Congo’s recent resilience and Nigeria’s struggles suggest the Red Devils could have the upper hand.
Nigeria vs Congo predicted scoreline
Nigeria’s dismal form, lack of goals, and defensive vulnerabilities make them underdogs despite their historical edge over Congo. Congo, while not prolific, have shown greater resilience and have a slim chance of advancing, which will motivate them to push for a victory. Their compact defense is likely to frustrate Nigeria’s blunt attack, and their ability to score from limited chances could prove decisive.
