Why Eric Chelle Rejected Victor Osimhen’s Plea To Continue Against DR Congo

Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying journey ended in heartbreak, and new details reveal that a major moment behind the scenes involved star striker Victor Osimhen pleading to remain on the pitch — only to be overruled by head coach Eric Chelle.

According to FlashScore editor Shina Oludare, who shared insights from a breakfast conversation with a member of the Super Eagles technical crew, Osimhen was desperate to continue despite picking up a minor hamstring issue during the crucial clash against DR Congo. With the game tied at 1-1, the Napoli star believed he could still make a decisive impact.

But instead of giving in to emotion or pressure, the coaching staff made a calculated, long-term decision:
protect the player, not the moment.

Why Chelle Said No

Osimhen’s determination has never been in doubt. The striker is known for playing through discomfort and carrying the team when needed. But with the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) fast approaching, the risk of worsening the hamstring problem was too high.

The technical staff opted to substitute him for Akor Adams in the second half — a decision made strictly for player welfare and the team’s future needs, even though the stakes were incredibly high.

Behind The Revelation

Shina Oludare posted on X, revealing:
“He told me Osimhen was begging to play in the second half despite the injury, but they turned him down to avoid aggravating it with AFCON around the corner.”

This confirms what many fans suspected — Osimhen wanted to fight to the very end, but Chelle and his staff prioritized long-term strategy over immediate desire.

Had breakfast with a member of the Super Eagles technical crew this morning. He told me Osimhen was begging to play in the second half despite the injury, but they turned him down to avoid aggravating it with AFCON around the corner. Yet some of you still come online to tweet… https://t.co/f8oRADwQGl

— Shina Oludare (@sportingshina) November 17, 2025

Aftermath Of The Painful Defeat

Despite their resilience, the Super Eagles fell 4-3 on penalties after a tense 1-1 draw in regulation time. The disappointment was so deep that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) issued a public apology to President Tinubu and Nigerians worldwide for the failed World Cup bid.

The moment has sparked conversations across the sports market, raising questions about squad depth, tactical decisions, and preparation as focus now shifts to AFCON.

Big Picture: The Right Call?

For readers of the best sport blog and serious followers of Nigerian football, one question remains:

Did the coaching crew make the right decision?

In hindsight, protecting Osimhen — Nigeria’s most valuable attacking asset — might prove wise as AFCON approaches. The World Cup dream may be gone, but another continental mission lies ahead.

And as always, Sports Market International will be here to break it down — every angle, every headline, every moment that shapes Africa’s sports narrative.