Eric Chelle defends decision not to bring on Nigeria's first-choice penalty taker Troost-Ekong

Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has defended his controversial decision to leave captain William Troost-Ekong on the bench during Nigeria's dramatic penalty shootout loss to DR Congo on Sunday night in Morocco.

Troost-Ekong, who is Nigeria's first-choice penalty taker, was left on the bench, prompting criticism from the fans.

Chelle instead introduced defender Chidozie Awaziem in the final ten minutes of extra time, a move many Nigerians felt overlooked the team's most reliable spot-kick option.

Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone after the match, Chelle explained that his decision was tactical. 

"We did a penalty session yesterday. But it was a choice and if we come back maybe one hour later and this is not the same. 

"It was a choice because I did feel that we were in danger during the ten last minutes that is why we put another defender."

Despite the defeat, Chelle said he is now fully focused on preparing the team for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in December.

"So, it is easy now to say maybe the best choice was the captain. So, it was a choice and reality we lost and I have to be focused on the next competition," he added.

During the shootout, Nigeria missed three penalties, while DR Congo converted four, sealing a 4-3 victory after a 1-1 stalemate in regulation time.

With attention now shifting to the African Cup of Nations, Chelle will hope to guide the Super Eagles toward their fourth AFCON title following their runner-up finish in the previous edition.

Adeyemi Adewale

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