Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle said defeat would have been emotionally devastating, but pride replaced pressure after the Super Eagles secured third place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Malian-born coach praised his players’ commitment, discipline and resilience across the tournament, insisting the squad had earned his deepest respect despite missing out on the trophy.
“It would have been very difficult for me to accept if we had lost this game,” Chelle said. “My players gave everything during this AFCON and I am very proud to be their coach.
“It is not easy when a French coach comes in and is very demanding, but they worked hard, respected the process and earned my respect.”
Eric Chelle in the pre match press conference. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Nigeria finished the tournament with a penalty shootout victory in the third-place play-off, following a campaign that Chelle believes can serve as a platform for future success.
“I am happy with third place, even though I wanted to bring the trophy to Nigeria, we don’t know what the future holds. Maybe in two years we will bring it.”
Chelle revealed he deliberately altered his tactical approach for the match, starting with a flat 4-4-2 formation rather than his preferred midfield diamond.
“I wanted to bring the game wide first, then inside,” he explained. “The players are more comfortable in the diamond, so the first half was difficult.
“In the second half we kept the ball better, we even scored a goal that was ruled offside, and when Lookman came in he was very good. For me, we deserved this victory.”
Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: Imago
The coach also reserved special praise for goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose fitness and form had been questioned before the tournament.
“We prepared Stanley like every other player. We have a very good goalkeeper coach and technical staff,” Chelle said.
“Something happened in his life. This is not just tactical or technical. We spoke in South Africa and built trust. He is strong, sometimes nervous, but he would go to war for his teammates. He gave everything in every game and deserves this victory.”
Photo Credit: Making of Champions
With Nigeria having missed out on World Cup qualification, Chelle stressed that continuity and long-term development are now his priorities.
“Our mission now is the next AFCON. We want to build something ambitious,” he said.
He also defended his squad rotation and substitution decisions, insisting they were part of a broader vision rather than short-term caution.
“Sometimes you must take risks to help the team improve,” I am looking for 24 players who can compete every day. High pressing for 90 minutes is difficult in tournaments, so we are building depth for the future, whether I am here or not.”
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Chelle addressed criticism over the limited involvement of younger players, explaining that protecting their development was essential.
“You cannot just throw young players into pressure situations,” he said. “Imagine taking penalties in front of 60,000 people. If they fail, it can affect their careers.
“They must prove readiness every day in training, not just one session.”
Super Eagles Technical bench led by Eric Chelle. Photo Credit: Making of Champions
He cited Benjamin Frederick as an example of patience being rewarded, adding that others must continue to develop and compete with established players.
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“If we play with intensity, aggression and movement, we are the best team in Africa, now we must build a team that can sustain that level, improve our set-pieces and penalties, and keep growing”Chelle concluded.
