Every word Eric Chelle said on playing under pressure, Olusegun, Safonov's error, Russia No.9 & more

Following the 1-1 draw between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Russia’s national team in the friendly match on Friday at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium, head coach Eric Chelle shared his detailed thoughts on the game, praising both teams and highlighting areas for improvement.

Chelle opened by acknowledging the strong performance of the Russian side. 

"The Russian team is a great team. Your players played great: they have good technique, and they are especially strong in pressing," he said at the post-match press conference. 

"The whole game was interesting, and, in my opinion, a draw is a fair result in such a difficult match.”

He commended the atmosphere and the fans at the stadium, calling the experience ‘very good’ and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to play in such an environment.

Reflecting on the challenges faced by his team, Chelle admitted, "The game was indeed difficult. We had a few moments, and the Russians did too. I think that two strong teams met." 

He stressed the need for the Super Eagles to improve under pressure, noting, "We will make changes, we will work on playing under pressure, because this problem has already arisen in the last three matches. 

"We need to learn to cope with the opponent's pressing – this was especially noticeable in the second half, when we were practically left without the ball. This is thanks to the Russian footballers."

When asked about standout players from Russia, Chelle singled out striker Nikolay Komlichenko, who wore the number 9 jersey. 

"The Russian team has a lot of good players. I would especially like to mention number 9 – he stood out," he said. 

He praised Russia’s well-structured play and quick transitions, adding, "I think that the draw in Moscow is a reason to be proud, especially considering the level of the Russian team."

Turning to his own squad, Chelle praised Nigerian winger Olusegun: "He has many advantages: he is very fast, does not lose the ball, has a strong character. But, like any player, he needs to continue working and developing." 

Chelle noted Olusegun’s excellent form over the past week but urged increased productivity in club play, especially regarding assists.

On the conceded goal linked to a goalkeeper’s error, Chelle was supportive of Russian goalkeeper Matvey Safonov.

"Everyone makes mistakes – it’s part of the game. Goals are scored precisely because of mistakes. I don’t think the goalkeeper is the only one to blame – it’s the result of the entire team’s actions,” he stated, further praising Safonov’s quality by noting, "I follow the French championship and I can say: you have a great goalkeeper."

In closing, Chelle compared Russia’s style to that of Germany, describing it as "a very smart game" with "a high volume of movement." 

He warned that visiting teams “without understanding all the details” might face serious difficulties in Moscow.

The 1-1 draw marks a respectable outcome for the Super Eagles as they prepare for their upcoming qualifiers, with Chelle emphasizing the importance of learning and adapting from this experience.

Wale Adejumo

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