Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has reacted to Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matchday three encounter in Uyo on Friday night.
Goals from Alhassan Yusuf and substitute Tolu Arokodare, who netted twice, secured all three points for Nigeria against Miguel Gamondi’s men.
Alphonce Msanga scored Tanzania’s only goal of the encounter.
Chelle Reflects On Dominant Win
Despite the convincing victory, Chelle admitted that his team still had areas to improve ahead of the return fixture in Tanzania.
The Malian tactician acknowledged both the positives and shortcomings in his side’s performance.
“There are a lot of good things, but there are some bad things. We are not perfect. We have a few days to correct everything,” Chelle told reporters after the game.
“We have to go to Tanzania to win the next game. The most important is the next game.”
Read Also:AFCON 2027Q: Chelle Defends Okoye’s Exclusion For Tanzania Double-Header
Lookman’s Injury Update
Nigeria could be without Ademola Lookman for Tuesday’s matchday four encounter against Tanzania after the forward picked up an injury during Friday’s game.
Lookman was forced off late in the first half and was replaced by Moses Simon following a knock to his knee.
Providing an update on the Atalanta forward’s condition, Chelle explained that the injury occurred while Lookman was attempting to score with his left foot.
“Ademola has a little problem. He took a knock on his knee when he tried to score a goal with his left foot,” Chelle disclosed.
His availability for the return leg remains uncertain pending further assessment.
Chelle Praises Super-Sub Arokodare
Chelle also reserved special praise for Arokodare, whose introduction proved decisive in the game.
The coach highlighted the forward’s quality, confidence and determination, insisting that his performance demonstrated exactly why he was brought into the national team.
“Tolu showed exactly why we brought him into this team. Coming off the bench and scoring twice takes quality, confidence and determination. He gave us a different attacking threat and made a huge impact when the team needed him,” Chelle added.
By Adeboye Amosu
