Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has shared his thoughts on Nigeria’s disappointing draw against Zimbabwe in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Despite taking the lead early in the match, the Nigerian side failed to secure all three points, allowing the Warriors to snatch a draw.
Speaking after the game, the French-born coach admitted that his team struggled to finish off their chances and looked fatigued as the match progressed.
“In the first half, we had opportunities to score 10 goals. Zimbabwe came to defend, and my players dominated with possession and fast attacking football,” Chelle said in his post-match press conference.
“I’m really disappointed—for my players, for the country. Now, we have to start looking at second place. We deserved to win, but that’s football.
“In the last 10 minutes, it became difficult for us. We played with high intensity in the first half, and maybe the players were a bit tired.
“We tried to score more goals. After our first goal, I told my players to push for another, but fatigue might have affected them.
“We used a diamond formation, which created plenty of chances but also demanded a lot of energy. That’s why we had Ademola on the left and support on the other side.
“After we scored, it became difficult for Victor, so I made a change. I didn’t want to bring in a defender. Maybe that decision wasn’t the best, but if we had won, everyone would have said it was the right call,” he explained.
