Eric Chelle was delighted with Nigeria’s win against Congo, expressing relief that the team secured all three points at the end of the tournament, but also showing regret over the losses against Senegal and Sudan.
The CHAN Eagles picked a 2-0 win to close out their campaign at the tournament – after being eliminated earlier.
Speaking after the match against Congo, Chelle called on the NFF to invest more in the CHAN Eagles.
“We deserve to win this game because we had the possession and the ball. We tried to play and we did, we played well during the game. The boys were determined as they didn’t want to come to Nigeria without a win.”
He continued:
“We need to improve, we played in the tournament without much experience. Senegal has experience, and they read our game and scored a goal with our first mistake.
“In the Sudan game the pressure was so high on the players, it is painful, we win but have lots of regrets.”
Nigeria’s goals were scored by Anas Yusuf and Alimi Sikiru.
It remains to be seen how many of the players in the Super Eagles B team will be called into the senior squad, but 15-year-old goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, who became the youngest player to appear in the history of CHAN, stands a chance.
Chelle will now have to put the disappointment of the tournament behind him and focus on the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.
Nigeria currently sits in fourth place in Group C, six points behind leaders South Africa.
The Franco-Malian tactician understands there is no margin for error as he will be judged by whatever results he gets henceforth, and the African Nations Championship early exit will always be referred to.
Nigeria has played five competitive matches, aside from friendlies, under Chelle and has managed two wins, one draw, and two losses.
