Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has said the team’s opening match against Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations provided important lessons for the technical crew ahead of tougher group fixtures.
Chelle made this known after Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their first group game.
Despite the win, the coach said the Super Eagles must improve, noting that although the team created several chances, especially in the first half, mistakes in the second half allowed Tanzania back into the match.
He described the opening victory as encouraging but stressed the need for greater discipline and control as the competition progresses.
“At this level, small details decide games. We played well, but we must reduce our mistakes, especially against stronger opponents,” Chelle said.
He added that consistency would be key to success at the tournament, assuring that the team would carefully analyse the match and make necessary corrections.
“AFCON is about consistency. We will analyse this game carefully and make the necessary corrections before the next match,” he said.
Chelle expressed satisfaction with the three points but maintained that steady improvement remains the priority in what he described as a long and demanding AFCON campaign.
The coach disclosed that the technical crew would immediately review the game to address observed lapses ahead of Saturday’s crucial clash against Tunisia.
He also emphasised the need to improve off-the-ball movement, insisting that while the win was deserved, the Super Eagles still have much work to do.
