Unity Cup final: Three things Eric Chelle must get right before Nigeria v Jamaica showdown

As the Super Eagles prepare to face Jamaica in the Unity Cup final on Saturday, Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle must make urgent improvements in three critical areas to ensure his team finishes the tournament on a high.

Despite edging Ghana 2-1 in the semi-final, the Super Eagles showed signs of tactical and structural vulnerabilities that Jamaica could exploit. Here are three areas Chelle must focus on:

1. Defensive Organisation and Set-Piece Discipline

Nigeria’s backline looked shaky under sustained pressure from Ghana in the second half. 

While Razak Simpson’s own goal gave Nigeria breathing space, lapses in communication and poor marking nearly allowed the Black Stars to level late on. 

Stanley Nwabali was forced into a vital save in the 87th minute, highlighting defensive fragility. 

Chelle must ensure better coordination between his defenders and improve their reaction to second balls, particularly from set pieces, where Jamaica’s physical forwards could pose a threat.

2. Midfield Control and Transitions

The Super Eagles lost control of the midfield after their early dominance. Ghana capitalised on this by increasing their possession and momentum in the second half. 

Nigeria lacked a holding midfielder to break play and recycle possession under pressure. 

Chelle must find a balance in midfield, possibly deploying a more disciplined anchor to dictate tempo and improve transitions. 

Failing to control the midfield could allow Jamaica’s pacey attackers to launch dangerous counterattacks.

3. Finishing and Decision-Making in the Final Third

Cyriel Dessers opened the scoring brilliantly, but Nigeria struggled to kill off the game despite several promising opportunities. 

Kelechi Iheanacho had a goal disallowed, but overall the final pass and finishing touch were often lacking. 

Against Jamaica, clinical execution will be key. Chelle must work on his forwards' composure and decision-making to make their dominance count and avoid last-minute drama.

Saturday’s final is more than just a match—it’s a chance for Chelle to further stamp his philosophy on the team. 

A convincing display against Jamaica will not only secure silverware but also boost morale ahead of World Cup qualifiers.

Wale Adejumo

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