Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has explained the tactical change that helped Nigeria fight back from two goals down to draw 3-3 with Russia, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria looked to be heading for another disappointing result after Russia overturned Kelechi Iheanacho’s early opener before adding two more goals after the break.
The hosts took control towards the end of the first half, with Lechii Sadulaev and Matvey Kislyak putting Russia 2-1 ahead before Aleksey Miranchuk extended their advantage nine minutes into the second half.
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Chelle’s side, however, refused to give up and found a way back into the contest late in the game. Peter Edokpolor pulled one goal back in the 78th minute before Akor Adams completed the comeback with a stoppage-time equaliser to secure a 3-3 draw.
Speaking after the game, Chelle admitted Russia had gained momentum but revealed the change he made to his attack helped Nigeria turn the game around.
“The game was good for both teams, Russia had momentum towards the end of the first half, and in the beginning of the second half it was the same,” he said as revealed by Complete Sports.
“But we found a solution because tactically we changed something about our strikers and they (Russia) couldn’t find a solution and this is why we scored two goals in transition.
“So, the state of mind of my team was very good, I’m proud of my players.”
The comeback will be particularly encouraging for Chelle after Nigeria suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their previous outing.
Despite entering the Russia clash with a severely depleted squad, the Super Eagles showed character to rescue a result and give the coach something positive to take from the international window.
For Chelle, the tactical response and mentality shown by his players ultimately mattered more than the difficult spells they endured against Russia.
