Nigeria sealed their place in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a thrilling 3–2 win over Tunisia on Saturday night in Fez, and head coach Eric Chelle expressed satisfaction with his team’s overall performance despite a tense finish.
Chelle praised the Super Eagles for their high tempo and control of the game for large spells, stressing that their work rate and ball recovery were key to the victory.
According to the coach, Nigeria’s ability to win possession both in advanced areas and close to their own defence helped them dictate the flow of the match.
“I’m very pleased with the intensity we showed for about 75 minutes,” Chelle said. “We recovered the ball high up the pitch and also deep in our own half, which allowed us to attack quickly and keep the ball for long periods.”
Read the related story on New Daily Prime:Chelle demands more from Super Eagles after AFCON opening win
The Nigerian coach noted that his side created several clear chances and deserved their lead for most of the encounter, particularly during a dominant second-half spell.
“We had many opportunities to score, and until the 75th minute in the second half, the victory was fully deserved,” he stated.
While acknowledging Tunisia’s late comeback attempt, Chelle maintained that Nigeria were superior throughout the match.
“Tunisia showed their usual fighting spirit towards the end. One goal came from a set piece and the other from open play, but overall, we were the better team in every area,” Chelle added. “Naturally, it would be better to close out games without so much pressure.”
Victor Osimhen put Nigeria ahead just before halftime with a powerful header from an Ademola Lookman delivery, before captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled the lead early in the second half, again heading home from a Lookman corner. The winger played a decisive role, registering two assists and a goal involvement.
The Super Eagles will round off their group-stage campaign against Uganda in Fez next Tuesday.
For more details, visit New Daily Prime at www.newdailyprime.news.
