Head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, has revealed the technical mistake his team made against South Africa during both sides’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
Chelle watched as Super Eagles played a 1-1 draw against South Africa at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.
Recall that William Troost-Ekong’s own-goal gave Bafana Bafana the lead in the 22nd minute.
However, Fulham defender, Calvin Bassey restored parity for Nigeria before half time.
Speaking to reporters at his post-match interview, Chelle suggested that the risk his team took to stay one-on-one behind against the hosts in the first half resulted in Super Eagles conceding a goal.
“For me it was a great game, with al ot of intensity and aggressivity,” Chelle said.
“Because of the pitch, the two teams tried to play well. Congratulations to South Africa they played a great game, Nigeria team too.
“We wanted to take a risk in the first half to stay one-on-one behind because for us the win was what we wanted.
“We wanted to take a risk and just 22 minutes we took a goal, but after that we had the state of mind to come back.”
Chelle’s side now sit in third position after the outcome of the encounter behind South Africa and Benin Republic.
