Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has lauded his team for their determination and focus following a thrilling 3-2 victory over Tunisia in Fez on Saturday night, a result that confirmed the Super Eagles’ progression to the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Nigeria appeared dominant for most of the contest, racing to a 3-0 lead thanks to a brilliant display from Ademola Lookman, who provided two assists before scoring a stunning left-footed goal in the 66th minute.
Chelle highlighted the team’s intensity and discipline throughout the game, praising both their defensive work and effective ball retention.
“I’m very happy with the intensity we showed for the majority of the match. We recovered the ball well, both high up the pitch and in our defensive areas. Our transitions were effective, and we were able to control possession for long periods,” Chelle said.
“We created numerous scoring opportunities and dominated the game until around the 75th minute. Overall, we deserved this win.”
Gossip News Now reports that Victor Osimhen opened the scoring shortly before halftime, heading home from a pinpoint Lookman cross. Captain Wilfred Ndidi doubled the lead early in the second half with another header from a Lookman corner. Lookman then capped his impact with his own goal, putting Nigeria 3-0 ahead.
Tunisia staged a late comeback, adding tension in the final minutes. Chelle acknowledged the challenge posed by the North African side once they regained momentum.
“We deserved this victory because we were the better team throughout. Tunisia showed their energy and quality late in the game. Their first goal came from a set piece, and the second from open play,” he added.
Montassar Talbi’s 75th-minute header and Ali Abdi’s converted penalty narrowed the gap, but Nigeria held firm, with Ferjani Sassi’s stoppage-time effort going narrowly wide.
The Super Eagles remain top of Group C with six points, securing their spot in the round of 16. The team will now prepare for their final group match against Uganda in Fez at 5 p.m. on Tuesday.
© 2025 Gossip News Now, a division of CHIEJOS HARBIAN DIGITAL MEDIA LTD. Contact us via admin@gossipnewsnow.online
