Eric Chelle is preparing for his first real test as Nigeria’s head coach, with crucial World Cup qualifiers ahead, Footynaija.com reports.
If the Super Eagles are to dominate in attack, he must centre his system around Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman—two of the most lethal forwards in African football today.
Both players have proved their ability at the highest level, delivering consistently for club and country. Their chemistry, movement, and finishing ability give Nigeria a unique attacking edge.
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Hereʼs why Eric Chelle should build his attack around Osimhen and Lookman.
1. Osimhen and Lookman Are Nigeria’s Most In-Form Attackers
Osimhen and Lookman are currently Nigeria’s most dangerous forwards. Osimhen, who played a key role in Napoli’s historic Serie A title win, has now taken his goal-scoring form to Galatasaray, where he has already netted 22 goals and provided five assists in 28 appearances across all competitions this season.
Despite transfer speculation and injury setbacks, he remains one of the most feared strikers in Europe.
Lookman, on the other hand, has been in sensational form for Atalanta, producing match-winning performances in Serie A and Europe. His ability to cut inside, take on defenders, and finish with both feet makes him an unpredictable weapon.
His crowning moment came in the Europa League final, where he scored a historic hat-trick to secure Atalanta’s first-ever European title. This earned him the 2024 African Player of the Year award, proving his status as one of the continent’s elite attackers.
2. Their AFCON Chemistry
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) showed how devastating Osimhen and Lookman can be when given freedom in attack.
While Lookman was Nigeria’s top scorer with three goals, Osimhen’s relentless pressing, movement, and link-up play made him a nightmare for defenders. Nigeria’s best attacking displays came when Lookman played off Osimhen.
Their understanding in the final third was obvious throughout the tournament, and with more time together, they can become even more dangerous. Chelle must now refine this partnership further.
3. They Complement Each Other’s Strengths
Osimhen is a classic Number 9. He is strong, aggressive, and deadly inside the box. Lookman shines when playing off a main striker, operating in wide areas or centrally, creating chances while also being a clinical finisher.
Having two attackers who understand each other’s movements naturally makes Nigeria’s attack better. Osimhen’s aerial dominance makes him a constant threat in the box, while Lookman’s dribbling and quick feet allow him to create openings from wide areas.
4. Nigeria Lacks a Better Alternative
Beyond Osimhen and Lookman, Nigeriaʼs attacking options are limited. While the likes of Victor Boniface, Cyril Dessers, and Tolu Arokodare are talented, injuries and inconsistency on the national stage have prevented them from staking a strong claim.
Without Osimhen’s presence, Nigeria often struggles to dominate defences, and without Lookman’s creativity, the team lacks direct attacking threats from wide areas. Chelle simply cannot afford to sideline these two in his plans.
5. They Are Proven at the Highest Level
International football demand attackers who can handle pressure and deliver in key moments. Osimhen has already proven himself as a game-changer, first by leading Napoli to a league title and now thriving in Turkey’s top flight.
Lookman, meanwhile, continues to shine in Italy and Europe, with his Europa League exploits only adding to his reputation.
Eric Chelle’s success with Nigeria will depend on how well he maximises these talents. In Osimhen and Lookman, he has two of Africa’s best attackers.
Building the Super Eagles’ attack around them is not just an option, it is a necessity.
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