Eric Chelle has explained why he preferred Akor Adams to Tolu Arokodare in his starting lineup against Tanzania, revealing that the Super Eagles needed a striker who could support their high press before bringing on the latter to exploit his strength inside the box, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria started with Adams in attack alongside Ademola Lookman, while Arokodare watched from the bench despite his recent goalscoring form for club and country.
The decision raised questions after Arokodare came on at half-time and scored twice in eight minutes to help Nigeria secure a 3-1 victory at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Related Post
Chelle explains his choice between Adams and Arokodare
Speaking at his post-match press conference, the Super Eagles coach explained that his selection depended on the type of striker needed for each tactical approach.
According to Chelle, Nigeria wanted to press Tanzania aggressively in the first half, which required forwards capable of covering ground and putting pressure on the opposition.
He also explained that Arokodare’s height and physical qualities made him particularly useful when Nigeria switched to a more direct approach, with the striker’s strength in the penalty area offering a different attacking option.
“It’s based on the profile of the player. If you want to make a high press, you need people who run a lot. Tolu can run, but he’s very tall, so sometimes it can be difficult for him to press,” Chelle explained.
“When we play 4-4-2, our game is more direct, like we did in the second half. His strength is in the box. When you play the ball into the box, he’s maybe actually the best striker.”
The coach was pleased with the striker’s response after his introduction but insisted that Nigeria still had work to do.
Arokodare rewarded the decision with two goals, first turning in Wilfred Ndidi’s delivery in the 52nd minute before finishing Moses Usor’s cross eight minutes later.
The brace took his tally to two goals in the match and gave Nigeria an important victory after their 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September.
Chelle will now hope his tactical decisions produce another positive result when the Super Eagles face Tanzania again in Zanzibar on Tuesday, November 17.
