AFCON 2025: Chelle hails Eagles’ grit after Algeria win, eyes Morocco test
Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle on Saturday praised his players’ discipline and belief after Nigeria’s deserved 2–0 victory over Algeria at the quarter-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria booked a record 16th AFCON semi-final appearance with the victory in Marrakech on Saturday and will face hosts Morocco in the last four.
Chelle said the players executed the game plan with maturity, adding that preparation and commitment were evident throughout the contest.
“I am extremely proud of the boys. They were happy, focused, and brave. We worked hard, and my vision is clearly taking shape in this team,” Chelle said.
The coach described the encounter as intense, noting that Algeria tested Nigeria’s patience before the breakthrough after halftime.
“For 45 minutes, we stayed calm. I told the players to trust the process. When the moment came, we struck with authority,” he added.
Chelle said Victor Osimhen’s opener changed the rhythm, giving Nigeria confidence and control.
“That first goal was important. It released the pressure and gave us belief to play our football,” he said.
The coach commended the team’s efficiency in sealing the game through Akor Adams’ composed finish.
“We were ruthless when opportunities came. That is the mentality we want at this level,” Chelle stated.
Chelle also applauded Nigeria’s defensive organisation, which nullified Algeria’s late push.
“Our defence stayed compact and intelligent. We managed the game well and showed maturity,” he said.
Looking ahead, Chelle acknowledged the challenge of facing hosts Morocco in the semi-final.
“Morocco are strong and playing at home. There will be pressure, but we respect them and believe in ourselves,” he said.
Chelle said Nigeria would recover quickly and prepare thoroughly for the crucial clash.
“We will rest, analyse, and prepare. The best team will win, and we want to be that team,” he added.
The Super Eagles face another stern test as they battle host nation, the Atlas Lions of Morocco, in Wednesday’s AFCON semi-final clash at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
NationWide
Lawyers seek non-custodial sentencing, speedy trials to decongest prisons
Lawyers called for comprehensive criminal justice reform to decongest correctional centres nationwide.
Africa
ICRC DG advocates PPPs to bridge West Africa’s infrastructure gap
Mr Ewalefoh said governments across the region could no longer rely solely on public resources to provide critical infrastructure.
Education
School Graduation: Rising costs put Lagos parents under pressure
Education stakeholders who spoke with journalists said the growing extravagance around school graduations calls for moderation.
Showbiz
TikTokers Jarvis, Peller announce wedding date
Jarvis and Peller are among Nigeria’s leading digital content creators, known for their comedy skits and livestreams.
Politics
APC uploads 471 candidates on INEC portal
Mr Yilwatda said that his party had uploaded the names of candidates for president, vice-president, the Senate and others into the INEC portal.
Sport
Footballers more likely to suffer depression, says study
The study found symptoms of depression in 31 per cent of these retired players, compared with nine per cent of the control group.
