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Nigeria’s Technical Director, Austine Eguavoen, has praised head coach Eric Chelle’s tactical approach in the Super Eagles’ 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Friday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, Footynaija.com reports.
Eguavoen, who was Nigeria’s interim coach before Chelle’s appointment in January, was particularly impressed with how the team started the match, highlighting the role of Samuel Chukwueze behind the two forwards.
“I liked what I saw, particularly the way they started the game with a formation that had Samuel Chukwueze playing behind the two forwards, Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon,” Eguavoen told Canada-based Nigerian journalist Wale Ajayi as per Daily Post.
“I wouldn’t say I am surprised because it’s something I know he can do.”
Eric Chelle says the team is not carried away by the Rwanda win & fully focused on the Zimbabwe game.
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) March 23, 2025
However, NFF has barred journalists & visitors at the Super Eagles camp.
And the training session today will be behind closed doors with 0 access for journalists. pic.twitter.com/Cg19bPuxK0
Osimhen’s brace in Kigali secured three crucial points for Nigeria, lifting spirits after a sluggish start to their qualification campaign.
However, Eguavoen urged the team to remain focused, especially with South Africa’s 2-0 win over Lesotho tightening the race for qualification.
“The good thing is that we won, and now we have to switch our focus to the game against Zimbabwe, especially after South Africa’s result. We will stay focused and not get carried away with this result in Kigali,” he added.
Nigeria now prepare to face Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday. The Warriors sit at the bottom of the group with just three points from five matches, making it a must-win encounter to keep their fading qualification hopes alive.
Historically, Nigeria has dominated this fixture, remaining unbeaten in their last seven meetings with Zimbabwe. With kickoff set for 5 pm Nigerian time, Chelle’s men will aim for back-to-back wins as they push towards the 2026 World Cup.
Eritrean referee Tsegay Teklu Mogos will officiate the match, assisted by Eyobel Michael and Mengis Sirak Samuel.
