Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has outlined what the team needs to do to revive their hopes of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations following their defeat to Guinea-Bissau.
The Nigeria national team suffered a 3-0 loss to the Djurtus on Tuesday evening, a result that strengthened Guinea-Bissau’s position at the top of the group and boosted their chances of securing the only qualification spot for the biennial tournament.
Speaking after the game, Chelle praised Guinea-Bissau’s performance, highlighting their mentality, attitude and physicality as key factors that gave the Djurtus an advantage over the Super Eagles.
“They were more aggressive than us. When you try to play, to cross, or make a cross, you need to have this aggressiveness in your state of mind to make the difference,” Chelle said.
The Franco-Malian tactician also lamented the poor condition of the pitch, noting that it played a role in the outcome of the match.
“I think they were better than us,” he added. “This is not an apology but they know their pitch. They usually play on this pitch but for us this is the first time and the pitch was very bad.”
Chelle revealed that he tried to change the team’s dynamics and approach in the second half, but the Super Eagles struggled to implement the plan due to the weather conditions.
“The weather was very hot too, so Guinea Bissau entered the game more motivated, aggressive, and we never found the solution.
“We tried to go forward to bring something new with the one-on-one on the wide but you see after ten minutes we stopped. I don't know why.
Despite the setback, Chelle remains confident that the Super Eagles still have a chance of securing qualification, stressing that the team must record victories over Tanzania in both legs to keep their hopes alive.
“To be very objective about this game, this is not the end, we have many games to play,” Chelle revealed.
“We have two games against Tanzania in November, we have to win both games and after that, Guinea Bissau will come down to Uyo, we have to put them in the same condition that we are here.”
“I am very confident about my team, today was not a good day for us. This is the first time that I see my team like that, so we will have to go forward, both games against Tanzania are very important.
“After that there is the last game against Madagascar and then Guinea Bissau, a lot of things can happen.”
While expressing his belief in the team's chances of securing qualification, Chelle also called on the fans to remain calm and continue supporting the Super Eagles.
“We have to stay focused and calm, we know our strengths and weaknesses and today was a bad day for us but I am still confident about my team and players,” Chelle concluded.
The Super Eagles currently sit second in the group with three points, while Guinea-Bissau lead the standings with six points and a superior goal difference.
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