Super Eagles assistant coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has defended head coach Eric Chelle’s decision to stay with the identical defensive setup after Victor Osimhen was substituted in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo on Tuesday, twenty fifth March.
After Osimhen’s exit, the coach selected to introduce an attacking participant as a substitute of reinforcing the defence, a decision that sparked criticism from some Nigerian soccer followers. Many believed a defensive change would have helped the Super Eagles defend their lead and safe all three factors.
Talking to Lagos Talks 91.3, Ilechukwu defined the decision, emphasising the group’s attacking mindset and confidence in their defence.
“It is a group that created nearly eight or 9 possibilities however didn’t convert them. At that second, the coach made a decision primarily based on the group’s philosophy and unity. We’re all working collectively as one.”
The assistant coach added that the group anticipated to attain extra objectives and didn’t suppose they might concede against Zimbabwe.
“We believed we’d rating greater than two objectives. We had been pushing for extra objectives and didn’t count on Zimbabwe to interrupt by our defence and rating.”
Ilechukwu additionally identified that creating possibilities doesn’t at all times assure victory, utilizing Rangers for instance.
“It’s regular. Identical to Rangers yesterday, we misplaced regardless of creating greater than 9 possibilities. The coach is working with all of us, and we’re totally behind him. We nonetheless have a bonus to qualify, and we should qualify.”
The draw in Uyo was a setback for Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes, leaving the group in a difficult place. With 4 video games left, the Super Eagles should bounce again rapidly and safe essential wins to maintain their possibilities of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive.
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