Chelle blames below-par performance for Eagles’ loss to Morocco

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has given his reasons for Nigeria’s loss to Morocco in their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash on Wednesday night.

Nigeria were knocked out of the tournament after falling 4–2 on penalties to the host nation, following a tense encounter that ended goalless after regulation time and extra time.

Speaking after the match, Chelle admitted that his team failed to match their usual standards, particularly in terms of energy, movement and technical execution.

According to the coach, Nigeria adopted a high-pressing approach to prevent Morocco from finding space, but the plan did not produce the desired result.

“We tried to press high because once you allow space, the game becomes very difficult,” Chelle told reporters.

“Technically, we were not as sharp as we have been in previous matches. I’m not saying fatigue was the main issue, but we clearly lacked power and movement.”

The Super Eagles had several opportunities to take control of the game but were unable to break down a disciplined Moroccan side before the match was decided from the penalty spot.