Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has delivered a surprisingly honest self-critique, admitting to making several poor tactical decisions during Nigeria's narrow 2-1 victory over Tanzania. The win, which came in the opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Fez, Morocco, secured three crucial Group C points but was far from a convincing performance.
A Hard-Fought Victory in Fez
The match, played on December 24, 2025, saw Nigeria enter under significant pressure following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles dominated possession for large stretches of the first half but struggled to break down a resolute Tanzanian defence. The breakthrough finally came in the 36th minute when defender Semi Ajayi, later named Man of the Match, powered a header from an Alex Iwobi cross into the net.
Nigeria thought they had doubled their lead shortly after halftime through Victor Osimhen, but the goal was correctly ruled out for offside after a VAR review. This moment proved pivotal, disrupting Nigeria's rhythm and handing Tanzania a boost in confidence.
Lookman's Swift Response Seals the Win
Tanzania capitalised on the shift in momentum, finding an equaliser in the 52nd minute through Charles M'Mombwa. The goal exposed vulnerabilities in Nigeria's defensive shape and briefly silenced the Nigerian supporters.
However, the Super Eagles' response was immediate and decisive. Just two minutes later, Ademola Lookman of Atalanta restored Nigeria's lead with a composed, low strike from outside the box, assisted once again by the influential Alex Iwobi. Lookman's goal proved to be the winner, allowing the three-time champions to see out the game despite late pressure.
Chelle's Candid Post-Match Admission
In a refreshing display of accountability, Coach Eric Chelle did not hide behind the result. Speaking to journalists after the final whistle, the Malian tactician openly acknowledged his own missteps on the touchline.
"I made a lot of choices; some were good, some were not good," Chelle stated frankly. "I told the journalists that I have my vision and I'm the coach." This admission highlights the intense scrutiny on his decisions as Nigeria navigates a tough group that also includes Tunisia and Uganda.
The victory provides a vital, if imperfect, start to Nigeria's campaign for a fourth AFCON title. The team must now quickly regroup and refine their approach ahead of their next crucial Group C fixture against Tunisia on December 27.
