Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle admitted defeat in the third-place match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations would have been difficult to accept, but expressed pride after the Super Eagles claimed the bronze medal.
Nigeria finished third after edging their opponents to cap a campaign that fell short of the title but provided encouragement for the future.
“It would have been very difficult for me to accept if we had lost this game,” Chelle said. “My players gave everything during this AFCON, and I am very proud to be their coach.”
Tactical choices and game management
Chelle revealed he deliberately adjusted his system for the third-place match, starting with a flat 4-4-2 rather than his preferred diamond midfield.
He also defended his in-game decisions, including substitutions that drew criticism from some supporters.
“If I do something that looks crazy, there is always a reason,” Chelle said, stressing that each decision was made with long-term development in mind.
Focus on players and future planning
The coach praised goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose place in the squad had been questioned before the tournament, crediting trust and preparation for his performances.
“We prepared Stanley like every other player,” Chelle said. “He is strong, sometimes nervous, but he would go to war for his teammates. He deserves this victory.”
Chelle also addressed questions over squad rotation and the limited involvement of younger players, insisting caution was necessary in high-pressure situations.
“You cannot just throw young players into pressure situations,” he said. “They must prove readiness every day in training.”
Despite missing out on the title, Chelle believes the tournament laid a foundation for progress.
“I am happy with third place, even though I wanted to bring the trophy to Nigeria,” he said. “Our mission now is the next AFCON. We want to build something ambitious.”
