Coach Eric Sekou Chelle believes the Super Eagles can only get better at the on-gong Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2025, after Saturday’s nervy 3-2 win over Tunisia in Fes.
The Super Eagles put on an impressive display of attacking prowess with Victor Osimhen opening the scoring a minute before halftime and captain Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman added two more after the break. But Tunisia staged a late comeback with goals from defenders Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi that set up a nervy finish.
Victory on Saturday sealed Super Eagles’ qualification to the 16th Round even with one first-round fixture still to play against Uganda tomorrow.
Smarting from that hard-fought win against Tunisia on Saturday, Chelle has the Super Eagles to learn how to manage games better while also praising the team’s intensity in the encounter.
“These are the situations that help a team grow; we must learn how to manage games better until the final whistle,” The Franco Malian coach said . “Our identity is based on intensity, aggression without the ball and speed when we regain possession. For most of the game, the players executed that very well.
“It is never easy to respond when momentum shifts, but the players stayed united and disciplined. That mentality is very important in tournament football.”
He added: “We have quality going forward but at this level, small details matter. We must remain focused from the first minute to the last.”
Speaking in the same vein, Ademola Lookman, who won the Man-of-the-Match award following his excellent display with a goal and two assists, was proud of the team’s resilience.
He said: “We showed character when the game became difficult. These are the moments that define teams in tournaments like this. We are building strong connections on the pitch. Everyone understands their role, and that makes our play more fluid and dangerous.”
“The coach gives us belief and clear instructions. When you know exactly what is expected, it becomes easier to express yourself.”
