Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has lauded his team’s intensity, control, and mental strength after Nigeria secured a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Tunisia to book a place in the AFCON 2025 Round of 16.
The result lifted Nigeria to six points, sealing top spot in Group C. The Super Eagles will next face Uganda, while Tunisia take on Tanzania in Rabat.
Chelle said Tunisia’s late surge offered important lessons for his squad as the tournament progresses.
“These are the situations that help a team grow. We must learn to manage games better until the final whistle,” he said.
The coach emphasised that Nigeria’s pressing game was key to their dominance.
“Our identity is built on intensity, aggression without the ball, and speed when we regain possession. For most of the match, the players executed that very well,” Chelle noted. “It’s never easy when momentum shift.”
“But the players stayed united and disciplined. That mentality is crucial in tournament football. We have quality going forward, but at this level, small details matter. We must stay focused from the first minute to the last.”
Man-of-the-match Ademola Lookman echoed his coach’s sentiments, saying the team’s calmness under pressure reflected growing maturity within the squad.
“We showed character when the game became difficult. These moments define teams in tournaments like this,” he said.
“We’re building strong connections on the pitch. Everyone understands their role, and that makes us more fluid and dangerous.”