Despite halting Russia’s 36-goal streak, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says the team must improve its pressing ahead of September’s World Cup qualifiers
- Nigeria drew 1-1 with Russia after a first-half own goal from Semi Ajayi and a second-half equaliser by Tolu Arokodare.
- Coach Eric Chelle admitted his squad’s pressing game lacked consistency, especially in the first half.
- He noted that recent changes to the squad have disrupted tactical cohesion, especially among newer players.
- Russia, he said, gave Nigeria a proper test with technical quality and constant pressure.
- Nigeria's next face Rwanda (home) and South Africa (away) in September’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
For Chelle, the Moscow result wasn’t just about halting Russia’s momentum, it was a learning moment. He stressed that the pressing philosophy the Super Eagles have been trying to instill was not fully executed, especially by fresh call-ups still adapting to his system. The second half improvement, he said, was promising but not yet enough.
With Rwanda and South Africa coming up, Chelle’s focus is now on tactical sharpness and player understanding. “We didn’t play well in the first half,” he admitted, “but we were better after the break.” It’s clear: the job isn’t done.
