Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has expressed satisfaction with Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying Matchday Three encounter in Uyo on Friday night.
Goals from Alhassan Yusuf and substitute Tolu Arokodare, who scored twice, secured all three points for Nigeria against Miguel Gamondi’s Tanzanian side.
Alphonce Msanga scored Tanzania’s only goal of the encounter.
Despite the impressive victory, Chelle insists that the Super Eagles still have areas to improve as they prepare for Tuesday’s return fixture against Tanzania.
Chelle Identifies Areas for Improvement
Speaking after the encounter, the Malian tactician acknowledged his team’s positive performance but admitted that Nigeria were not entirely convincing in every department.
“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.
The Super Eagles manager also emphasised the importance of securing another victory in the return leg, insisting that his players must remain focused.
“We have to go to Tanzania to win the next game. The most important is the next game.”
Nigeria will travel to Tanzania for Tuesday’s Matchday Four encounter, hoping to maintain their momentum in the AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.
Chelle Provides Ademola Lookman Injury Update
Meanwhile, Nigeria could be without forward Ademola Lookman for the return fixture after the Atalanta attacker picked up an injury during Friday’s encounter.
Lookman was forced off late in the first half following a knock to his knee and was replaced by Moses Simon.
Providing an update on the winger’s condition, Chelle explained how the injury occurred while the forward 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.
Lookman’s availability for Tuesday’s encounter remains uncertain, with the player’s condition expected to be assessed further.
His possible absence could be a concern for Nigeria as they prepare for another important qualifying fixture.
Chelle Praises Tolu Arokodare After Impressive Super-Sub Performance
Chelle also reserved special praise for Tolu Arokodare following the striker’s outstanding contribution against Tanzania.
The Wolverhampton Wanderers forward came off the bench and scored twice in the second half to help Nigeria secure a comfortable 3-1 victory.
His introduction provided the Super Eagles with a different attacking dimension, while his clinical finishing proved decisive.
Chelle praised the striker’s quality, confidence and determination, describing his performance as a demonstration of why he earned his place in 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.
Arokodare’s brace will further strengthen his case for a starting position as Nigeria prepare for the return encounter.
With three points secured in Uyo, the Super Eagles will now turn their attention to Tanzania, where Chelle’s men will aim to build on Friday’s victory and strengthen their position in the race for qualification for AFCON 2027.
