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Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle says his Super Eagles will be guided by clear thinking rather than emotionwhen they face Algeria in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final in Marrakech, footynaija.com reports.
With memories of the 2019 semifinal defeat to Algeria, still fresh for many Nigerian fans, Chelle was quick to dismiss any talk of revenge. The former Mali head coach insists that his attention is fixed on tactics, discipline and collective effort as Nigeria chase a place in the semi-finals.
Speaking ahead of the heavyweight tie at the Stade de Marrakech, the Mali-born coach stressed that mindset would matter just as much as energy against one of Africa’s most respected sides.
“This is a very important match against a strong opponent,” Chelle said. “We are still finalising our approach, but the most important thing is to stay focused and united on the pitch.”
He also had warm words for Algeria, describing their backroom staff as highly professional and their team as one of the best on the continent.
“I respect this Algerian side a lot,” he added. “But this game is not about 2019. It is about what we do now and how we qualify.”
Chelle knows much of the attention will fall on Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, two of the tournament’s biggest stars. But he was keen to play down the idea that Nigeria’s hopes rest on individuals alone.
“Yes, people talk about them because they are among the best players in Africa. That is normal,” he said. “But football is about the team. We support each other, we create chances together, and we win together.”
Nigeria and Algeria have met nine times at the Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Eagles winning three and losing four of those encounters.
