No room for error: Three key tactical tweaks Eric Chelle must make before facing the Cheetahs

As Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare to host Benin's Cheetahs in a decisive Group C clash at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, head coach Eric Chelle faces the formidable task of securing a victory under immense pressure. 

With Nigeria needing a win and preferably by a two-goal margin to keep their 2026 World Cup hopes alive, Chelle must implement tactical adjustments to overcome Benin’s well-organized side led by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr.

1. Compensate for the Absence of Ademola Lookman

Nigeria will be without suspended winger Ademola Lookman, a key creator in the squad. Chelle must adjust by ensuring that Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze exploit the flanks more aggressively. 

This will require not only maintaining width in attack but also ensuring quick transitions to maximize counter-attacking opportunities. 

Encouraging full-backs or midfielders to overlap can help replicate Lookman's influence, creating more space and crossing opportunities for strikers Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare.

2. Strengthen Defensive Cohesion

Nigeria has conceded eight goals in nine qualifying games, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. Chelle must reinforce the partnership between central defenders William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey, ensuring tighter marking of Benin’s attackers, particularly Steve Mounie. 

Midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi must provide additional defensive support by breaking up play and shielding the backline. 

Effective communication between defenders and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will be vital to avoid lapses, especially against Benin’s set-piece threats.

3. Adopt a Dynamic, Flexible Attack

While a 4-4-2 formation has served Nigeria in recent matches, Chelle may need to adopt a more dynamic 4-3-3 system to stretch Benin’s defense. 

This approach allows wingers to cut inside or deliver crosses while Osimhen can exploit central spaces more effectively. 

A flexible midfield rotation with Iwobi and Ndidi supporting both defense and attack will ensure Nigeria can transition quickly and maintain offensive pressure throughout the match. 

The aim is not just to score but to secure the two-goal margin potentially needed for qualification.

Wale Adejumo

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