Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has suggested that Nigeria may adjust its tactical approach ahead of Wednesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final showdown against Morocco.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, January 13, the Malian-born tactician acknowledged that the physical toll of Nigeria’s demanding campaign is beginning to show on his players after a gruelling run to the last four of the tournament.
Chelle has largely stuck with a 4-4-2 diamond setup throughout the competition, pairing Victor Osimhen with Akor Adams in attack. The system has paid off handsomely, as the Super Eagles have emerged as one of the most potent attacking sides at the tournament, netting 14 goals in five matches and leading the competition in chance creation.
Nigeria’s aggressive, high-intensity style has brushed aside several opponents along the way, including Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Mozambique and Algeria, powering the team confidently into the semi-finals.
However, despite the impressive returns, Chelle admitted that the physical demands of such an energy-sapping system may require a rethink against a technically astute Moroccan side.
“My team is feeling the fatigue, and because of that, I may need to adjust how we play,” Chelle said.
The Super Eagles coach hinted that Nigeria could take a more measured and compact approach, possibly conceding possession to Morocco while remaining disciplined defensively. He noted that the North African giants have struggled at times when faced with opponents who sit deep and restrict space.
“We may allow Morocco to have the ball and be patient. We’ve noticed they don’t always cope well against a low defensive block. That could be how we start the game,” Chelle explained.
According to the coach, the plan would be to weather early pressure before gradually asserting Nigeria’s influence later in the contest.
“Our idea is to stay solid in the first half, then express ourselves more in the second half,” he added.
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If executed, the tactical shift would represent a notable change from Nigeria’s attacking philosophy at the tournament, as the Super Eagles aim to overcome Morocco and secure a place in the AFCON final.
