Super Eagles assistant coach: Why Chelle left defence unchanged after Osimhen's substitution v Warriors

Super Eagles assistant coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has defended head coach Eric Chelle’s decision to maintain the same defensive structure after substituting Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25.

Following Osimhen’s exit, Finidi opted to introduce an attacking player rather than a defensive reinforcement, a decision that drew criticism from sections of the Nigerian football community. 

Many argued that a defensive switch would have helped the Super Eagles protect their lead and secure all three points.

Speaking to Lagos Talks 91.3, Ilechukwu explained the rationale behind the decision, emphasizing the team’s attacking intent and confidence in their defensive setup.

"I want us to talk about the change in the team, a team that created almost eight or nine chances and we didn't convert the chances," Ilechukwu said. 

"I think at that point in time, he's a coach that works with everyone, he's a coach that came with his unity and philosophy. All what we are doing in the team, we are doing it together."

The assistant coach stressed that the team believed they could score more than two goals and did not anticipate conceding against Zimbabwe.

"In that game, we believed we would score more than two goals. We were looking for ways to score and didn’t think that, with the kind of defense we have, Zimbabwe would be able to break through and score a goal."

He also pointed out that creating chances does not always guarantee victory, citing Rangers as an example.

"It's normal, just like what happened in Rangers yesterday. We lost but created more than nine chances. The coach is working with all of us and we are together with him. We have an advantage to qualify and we must qualify."

The result dealt a blow to Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations, as the draw in Uyo left the Super Eagles in a difficult position in the qualification race. 

With four more games to play, the team will need to recover quickly and secure crucial victories to keep their hopes alive.

Wale Adejumo

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com