Tired legs, costly goal: Eric Chelle explains Super Eagles late collapse in 1-1 draw v Warriors

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has acknowledged that fatigue played a significant role in his team's 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe, following a strong performance in the first half. 

The Super Eagles took the lead in the 74th minute through Victor Osimhen but were pegged back late in the match when Chirewa scored the equalizer in the 90th minute, leaving Chelle frustrated with the result.

In his post-match comments, Chelle focused on the intensity displayed by his players during the first half, noting that their efforts were commendable but left them vulnerable towards the end of the game. 

I think in the last 10 minutes, it was difficult for us because we had put in a lot of effort in the first half, with lots of intensity and aggression," Chelle explained.

"The players might have been a little tired, and this led to a lapse in concentration, which cost us the goal."

The Super Eagles had dominated the first half with their pressing game and attacking flair, creating several chances.

However, the team struggled to maintain the same level of intensity in the latter stages, which allowed Zimbabwe to equalize in the final moments of the match. 

Chelle admitted that the fatigue factor made it difficult for him to assess the performance fully, as he felt the team deserved to win.

"It’s hard for me to analyze the game fully right now because, honestly, I feel we deserved to win,” Chelle stated. 

“We created chances, we were aggressive, and we played well in the first half. But we need to learn how to manage the game better when we’re ahead."

Despite the frustration, Chelle remained focused on the lessons to be learned from the draw. 

He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and urgency throughout the entire match, rather than just in the opening stages. 

The coach also recognized that, at this level, lapses in concentration and tiredness can be costly, and his players must find ways to maintain focus throughout.

Wale Adejumo

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