By Rasheed Adewuyi, New York
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has attributed Nigeria’s strong run at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 to increased training time, squad cohesion, and the growing understanding of his tactical project.
Speaking after Nigeria’s 2–0 quarterfinal win over Algeria on Saturday in Marrakech, Chelle emphasized that the foundation of the team’s improvement is not personnel changes but consistency and preparation.
“If you watch the game during the World Cup qualifiers, you’ll see that it is the same team that is trying to achieve the goal of my project,” Chelle told reporters. “The improvement is due to more training and lots of games together as a group.”
The Malian-born tactician, who faced early criticism during the World Cup qualifiers, after their first game against Zimbabwe in Uyo, noted that the players are now grasping his tactical system better as the tournament progresses.
“When I lost my first match, people criticized me because of the substitutions,” he said. “I told them we lost because we were tired.”
Chelle praised his squad’s performance against Algeria, describing it as a deserved win that aligns with his game plan and long-term strategy for the team.
“Every game has a story. I am happy that my game plans and the project are working out on the field,” he added.
With the semi-final clash against hosts Morocco looming on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Chelle called for focus and discipline as Nigeria aims to win their fourth continental title.
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