Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has acknowledged that some of his tactical decisions were flawed during Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations opener. Despite the team securing a crucial three points to launch their quest for a fourth continental crown, Chelle remained self-critical regarding his game management at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
The match saw Semi Ajayi give Nigeria an early advantage before Charles M’Mombwa capitalized on a defensive lapse to equalize for the Taifa Stars. Although Ademola Lookman restored the lead just two minutes later to seal the win, the performance raised questions about the team’s ability to maintain control. During his post-match briefing, the Franco-Malian tactician admitted that his bench and system choices were a mixed bag.
“I made a lot of choices; some were good, some were not good. I told the journalists that I have my vision and I’m the coach,” Chelle said during his interaction with the media after the game.
The coach emphasized that while the victory provides a solid foundation, the technical crew must analyze the lapses in concentration that allowed Tanzania back into the contest. Nigeria currently sits in second place in Group C, trailing Tunisia on goal difference, and must now prepare for a pivotal encounter against the Carthage Eagles this Saturday.
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