ERIC CHELLE.webp
The Digest:

The Super Eagles have shifted into a focused, pragmatic mindset as they prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 match against Mozambique, balancing confidence from a perfect group stage with managing minor squad disruptions and the heightened pressure of knockout football.

Key Points:
  • Nigeria topped their group with nine points, scoring three wins in three matches.
  • Coach Eric Sékou Chelle, named ‘Coach of the Group Phase’, emphasises knockout pragmatism over flair.
  • Minor injuries affect preparations: Ryan Alebiosu is recovering, and Cyriel Dessers has returned to his club.
  • Ademola Lookman, a key performer with two goals and two assists, trained fully with the squad.
  • The team is unbeaten in regulation time across 13 competitive matches under Chelle.
  • Nigeria boasts a historic AFCON tally of 152 goals in 107 tournament matches.
  • Chelle credited his backroom staff for the group-stage success, urging continued focus.
The transition from group brilliance to knockout survival tests a team's true character, demanding not just skill, but the resilience to navigate the sudden, unforgiving storms of elimination football.

Sources: Soccernet, ScorenIGERIA