Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle has defended his decision to introduce Samuel Chukwueze late in Nigeria’s AFCON semi-final against Morocco, which ended in a painful penalty shootout defeat.
The match was tightly contested, with both sides showing strong defensive discipline over 120 minutes before penalties decided the outcome.
Critics questioned whether Chukwueze had enough time to adjust to the game, but Chelle explained the substitution was deliberate, based on the winger’s experience, composure, and confidence under pressure.
Related News :
AFCON 2025: Super Eagles Lose Semi-Final to Morocco on Penalties
He emphasized that penalty shootouts rely more on mental strength than minutes played on the pitch, and Chukwueze has consistently demonstrated poise in high-stakes situations during training and past matches.
Chelle stressed that responsibility for the loss should not fall on any individual, highlighting that fine margins often determine knockout games.
Despite the heartbreak, he praised the team’s resilience and growth throughout the tournament and expressed optimism about the future, noting that lessons from the Morocco defeat will help Nigeria prepare for upcoming international challenges.
The coach’s defense reflects his trust in his squad and belief in building a team capable of handling pressure in crucial moments.