Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has admitted that Nigeria’s top players often find it difficult to accept being benched, describing the situation as a natural outcome of competition at the highest level.
Chelle made the remarks after Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where winger Samuel Chukwueze showed visible frustration after being substituted.
Chelle Defends Tactical Substitution
Speaking during his post-match briefing, Chelle said the decision to withdraw Chukwueze was purely tactical and not personal.
“Yes, of course, we have many big names in this team. They are competitors, and they are not happy when they go to the bench,” Chelle said.
The coach explained that Nigeria’s diamond midfield system required adjustments late in the game to maintain balance and protect vulnerable areas.
“My job is to make choices. We are playing a 4-4-2 diamond, and at that moment, I felt we needed to protect the wing,” he added.
Competition Driving Standards In Camp
Chelle stressed that competition within the squad is healthy and necessary for success at international level. According to him, players’ reactions reflect their desire to contribute, not indiscipline.
He noted that managing egos and expectations is part of modern football, especially in a squad filled with established European-based professionals.
Focus Shifts To Tunisia Clash
Nigeria will face Tunisia on Saturday night in their next AFCON fixture, a match expected to test the squad’s depth and tactical discipline.
Chelle is likely to rotate his team again as the Super Eagles push for qualification, with performance, not reputation, expected to guide selection decisions.
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