'We could have scored 10 goals first half' - Eric Chelle disappointed after Nigeria's draw v Warriors

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has expressed frustration over his team's missed chances following their 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday evening.  

Nigeria took the lead in the 74th minute through Victor Osimhen, but the Super Eagles failed to hold on as Tawanda Chirewa struck a stoppage-time equalizer for Zimbabwe.

The result leaves Nigeria fourth in Group C with seven points, six behind leaders South Africa, further complicating their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.  

Speaking after the game, Chelle lamented Nigeria's wastefulness in front of goal, particularly in the first half, where the team failed to capitalize on clear-cut chances.

He emphasized that the Super Eagles could have secured a comfortable lead early in the match but lacked the finishing touch.  

"What can I say about the first half? Normally, we could have scored ten goals in the first half. You make some mistake in the last technical skills and Zimbabwe comes to defend and stop the game," Chelle said.  

Despite Nigeria taking the lead in the second half, Chelle admitted that the team became too relaxed, assuming they had done enough to win.  

"In the second half, when we scored the goal, we thought maybe it is finished. It tough, it's hard because my players and my team were the better team on the pitch," he added.  

The draw puts Nigeria in a difficult position, as they now need a strong finish in their remaining four qualifying matches to stand a chance of making the tournament.

However, there is still hope, as the second-best placed teams will have an opportunity to qualify through the intercontinental playoffs.

The Malian tactician voiced his disappointment with the situation but reassured fans that the team would fight hard to secure second place.

"I am so disappointed for my players, for the country because we can do it. I don't know the other games, I think we can go to look for the second place" Chelle concluded.  

With time running out in the qualifiers, the Super Eagles will need to bounce back quickly and ensure they do not drop more points in their bid to qualify for the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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