Super Eagles Players Must Learn How To Manage Games – Chelle

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has said that the players must learn how to manage games after the nervy 3-2 win over Tunisia on Saturday.

Nigeria earned a hard-fought victory despite racing to a 3-0 lead at some point in the game.

The Carthage Eagles almost snatched a point following a late rally in the encounter but the Super Eagles held on for a vital victory, which sealed their place in the next round of the tournament.

Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman gave the Super Eagles a 3-0 lead but Montassar Talbi reduced the deficit for Tunisia in the 75th minute.

Ali Abdi made it 3-2 from the penalty spot to ensure a nervy finish for the Super Eagles.

Chelle has urged his players to learn how to manage games better while also praising the team’s intensity in the encounter.

He said: “These are the situations that help a team grow. We must learn how to manage games better until the final whistle.

“Our identity is based on intensity, aggression without the ball and speed when we regain possession. For most of the game, the players executed that very well.

“It is never easy to respond when momentum shifts, but the players stayed united and disciplined. That mentality is very important in tournament football.

The Malian coach highlighted the need to achieve balance throughout a game.

Chelle concluded: “We have quality going forward, but at this level, small details matter. We must remain focused from the first minute to the last.”

Similarly, Ademola Lookman, who scored a goal, and recorded two assists in the encounter showered praises on his teammates for the impressive win.

He said: “We showed character when the game became difficult. These are the moments that define teams in tournaments like this.

“We are building strong connections on the pitch. Everyone understands their role, and that makes our play more fluid and dangerous.

“The coach gives us belief and clear instructions. When you know exactly what is expected, it becomes easier to express yourself.”

Lookman was named the most valuable player following his match-winning performance to lead the Super Eagles to victory.

In a related development, The Nigeria Football Federation President, Ibrahim Gusau was delighted with the Super Eagles 3-2 win over Tunisia.

He said: ”It’s not easy, when you come to this kind of tournament you always feel happy when you see that with two matches you have secured your slot to the round of 16 and by the grace of God we will take it from there.”

The Super Eagles will be back in action against Uganda on Tuesday in the last match of the first round.