Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has lavished praise on star striker Victor Osimhen, calling him the best in the world, as Nigeria prepares for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations group stage match.
Chelle's High Praise for Birthday Boy Osimhen
Speaking to the press on Monday, December 29, the Franco-Malian tactician did not hold back in his admiration for the Napoli forward, who celebrated his 27th birthday that same day. Chelle's comments come on the back of Osimhen's first goal of the tournament, a powerful header in Nigeria's thrilling 3-2 victory over Tunisia.
"Once again, happy birthday to him," Chelle said via All Nigeria Soccer. "I wish a lot of goals for my striker, my favorite striker. For me, the best striker in the world." The coach added that Osimhen is in a positive and focused mindset, expressing hope that "this Afcon will be a great Afcon for him."
Team Focus and Squad Depth Ahead of Uganda Clash
The three-time African champions, riding high after two consecutive wins, face the Cranes of Uganda at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Tuesday at 5 PM. A victory would seal a perfect start to their Group C campaign. Nigeria is also on the cusp of a significant milestone, sitting on 149 goals in 106 AFCON matches and aiming for their 150th.
Chelle emphasized the importance of every player in the squad, not just the starting eleven. "The competition is not only for the starting 11; everybody deserves a chance to play and show what they can offer the team," he stated. He highlighted the potential impact of substitutes, noting that "a player who makes a cameo appearance can change the outcome of games and even win a tournament."
Injury Scares Eased and Team Morale High
In other positive news for the Super Eagles, winger Ademola Lookman has dismissed concerns over an injury scare sustained during the Tunisia match. The Atalanta star, who provided the assist for Osimhen's opener, confirmed to Al Jazeera that he is "good and fine" and fully fit for the Uganda encounter.
Team captain Wilfred Ndidi echoed the confident mood within the camp but urged for continued focus. "The atmosphere in the team is good. Everyone is excited and confident, but the previous games are in the past. The focus is on the next game," Ndidi remarked.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali addressed questions about his recent form, revealing he had been managing minor injuries but credited the team's medical staff for keeping him match-ready.
With a motivated Osimhen leading the line, key players fit, and a coach instilling belief, the Super Eagles look poised to continue their strong run in Morocco as they set their sights on the knockout stages.
