The head coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Eric Chelle has reacted to the Super Eagles defeat inbtheblorocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations ( AFCON).
The Super Eagles were hoping to win this AFCON following the disappointment from the 2023 edition which was hosted in Cote d'Ivoire and also missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Eric Chelle believes that his team were no lucky enough to get his team over the line during the penalty shootout.
He admitted that his side did not perform at the same level they had shown earlier in the tournament. He pointed to a drop in technical quality and intensity at crucial moments, stressing that the team struggled to impose themselves as they had done in previous games. However, the Malian tactician was quick to dismiss fatigue as an excuse, instead highlighting small details and decision-making as key factors that went against his side.
Chelle praised the mentality and commitment of his players, noting that they showed character and fought until the very end. He defended his tactical decisions, including his choices during the penalty shootout, explaining that selections were based on performances and confidence shown in training.
According to him, penalties are always unpredictable and should not define the overall effort of the team.
What did Eric Chelle say about the Super Eagles?
He said,
“Our technicality was not like the same from last match. I don’t want to say we were tired but that’s not the level.”
On penalties,
"We put Chukwueze for penalties because the guys who kicked the penalties were the best in training. The match was never easy, but the players showed strong mentality and fought for every ball. We worked hard throughout the tournament. This is football, and we must continue working.”
Chelle emphasized the importance of regrouping quickly and finishing the tournament strongly, with attention already turning to the third-place playoff. He also hinted that discussions about his future with the Super Eagles would take place after the competition, keeping the focus firmly on the team rather than personal matters
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