CHAN 2024: Four areas Eric Chelle must improve to boost Super Eagles title chances

As the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, Nigeria’s Super Eagles B, under head coach Eric Chelle, are poised to chase their first-ever CHAN title. 

Despite a promising squad and rigorous preparations, Chelle’s tactical approach and team management require refinement in four critical areas to maximize Nigeria’s chances against formidable Group D opponents—defending champions Senegal, Congo, and Sudan.

1. Squad Balance and Selection Transparency  

Chelle’s selection of nine players from Remo Stars has sparked controversy, with critics questioning potential bias due to his assistant coach Daniel Ogunmodede’s ties to the club. 

While Chelle defends his choices, emphasizing players’ fit with his possession-based, high-pressing philosophy, the squad’s heavy reliance on one club risks predictability. 

To counter this, Chelle should broaden his selection pool, integrating standout performers from other Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) teams to enhance tactical versatility and silence critics. 

Transparent criteria for player selection would also bolster confidence in his decision-making.

2. Tactical Flexibility 

Chelle’s commitment to a high-pressing, possession-oriented style is clear, but recent friendlies against Zanzibar (ending 0-0 and 2-2) exposed limitations when opponents adopt defensive setups. 

Nigeria’s inability to break down Zanzibar highlights the need for alternative strategies, such as quicker transitions or varied attacking patterns. 

Developing a Plan B, including counter-attacking options, will be crucial against tactically astute teams like Senegal.

3. Player Fitness and Physical Conditioning 

Chelle’s aggressive tactics demand peak physical fitness, as emphasized by players like Sola Adelani, who likened the team’s intensity to a “top European side.” 

However, the short preparation window—two weeks in Ikenne and a week in Zanzibar—may not suffice for sustaining high-intensity performances across a month-long tournament. 

Chelle must prioritize conditioning to ensure players maintain energy levels, especially in high-stakes knockout stages.

4. Team Cohesion and Leadership

While Chelle’s approachable coaching style fosters player growth, as noted by Harrison Austin, the squad’s cohesion remains a work in progress. 

With key players like Papa Daniel absent due to overseas moves, Chelle must strengthen leadership within the team, relying on captain Junior Harrison Nduka and veterans like Godwin Obaje to unify the group. 

Regular team meetings and tactical clarity will further solidify Nigeria’s collective identity.

Nigeria will face defending champions Senegal on Tuesday, August 5, in their opening game of the 2024 CHAN.

Wale Adejumo

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