Eric Chelle Names Three Super Eagles Standouts After Painful Afcon 2025 Exit

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has singled out three Nigerian players for praise following the team’s dramatic penalty shootout defeat to host nation Morocco in the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria bowed out in cruel fashion after a tense, goalless 120 minutes at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, with Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou emerging as the hero by saving spot-kicks from Bruno Onyemaechi and Samuel Chukwueze.

A Heartbreaking End To A Perfect Run

The defeat brought an end to Nigeria’s flawless AFCON 2025 run, having won all five matches en route to the semifinals. Despite their dominance earlier in the tournament, the Super Eagles struggled to impose themselves in midfield against Morocco.

Alex Iwobi found it difficult to dictate play or connect the lines, leaving attacking stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman starved of service for long stretches of the game.

Chelle Praises Defensive Heroes

While some observers felt Calvin Bassey was Nigeria’s best performer on the night, Chelle believes the defensive effort was a collective one. Speaking on RMC Sport’s After Foot, the Malian tactician highlighted three defenders who stood out under immense pressure.

“Calvin was great, you also have the left-back Bruno Onyemaechi, who was having a great game,” Chelle said.
“You have the right-back Bright Osayi-Samuel, who was also impressive.”

According to Chelle, the trio played a key role in keeping Nigeria alive against relentless Moroccan pressure in a hostile environment.

Tactical Dilemma And A Hostile Atmosphere

Chelle also opened up on the tactical challenge he faced during the game, admitting he was torn between sticking to the original plan or making bold changes.

“These players may have lost, but they gave everything,” he said.
“The question was whether I should stick to the original game plan or try to make changes. I wasn’t convinced that waiting would prevent us from conceding two or three goals.”

Describing the atmosphere inside the stadium, Chelle admitted it was unlike anything he had ever experienced.

“The stadium was full of spectators; it was madness. I had never experienced a match like this before; it was incredible.”

Individual Quality Still Shines

Despite the painful exit, Nigeria’s quality was recognised at the end of the tournament. Calvin Bassey was named in the official AFCON Team of the Tournament, alongside Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.

For Chelle and the Super Eagles, the semifinal loss will sting, but the performances suggest a squad capable of challenging for continental glory again in the near future.

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