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Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has admitted that Guinea-Bissau displayed far greater aggression and intensity than Nigeria during Tuesday’s 3-0 defeat, acknowledging his squad failed to match the home team’s drive in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying clash.
The disappointing loss at the 24 September Stadium in Bissau marks a early stumble for Nigeria, coming right after their 2-1 comeback win against Madagascar in Uyo.
Addressing reporters after the final whistle, Chelle explained that Guinea-Bissau played with superior grit and character, leaving the Super Eagles unable to formulate effective counter-tactics.
“They were more aggressive than us. When you try to play, score and impose yourself, you need that aggression in your mentality to make the difference. I think they were better than us in terms of personality,” he said.
The manager also referenced challenging playing conditions, while stressing that they should not serve as an excuse for the squad’s performance.
“This is not an excuse, but if you look at the conditions, they know their pitch. They usually play on that surface, but for us, it was the first time, and the pitch was very, very bad. The weather conditions were also very poor.”
“Guinea-Bissau came into the game, as I said, more motivated and more aggressive. They showed greater intensity, and we never found a solution.”
Chelle revealed he attempted to adjust his tactics at halftime by urging his side to exploit the flanks and drive for direct one-on-one chances, but the tactical shift fell short. Looking ahead to the remainder of the Group L qualification run, the coach turned his attention to upcoming fixtures.
“We have two games against Tanzania in November, and we have to win both. After that, Guinea-Bissau will come to Nigeria, and we have to put them in the same conditions that we experienced in Guinea-Bissau,” he said.
Despite the setback, Chelle urged calm and expressed total confidence in his players’ ability to respond strongly.
“I’m very confident about my team and this group. Today was not a good day for us. This is the first time I have seen my team perform like that, but we have to move forward.”
“Both games against Tanzania are very important. After that, we have the final matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. A lot can happen in four games, so we have to stay focused and calm.”
“We know our strengths and our weaknesses. Today was a bad day for us, but I’m still confident about my team and my players.”
Nigeria will now refocus ahead of their crucial double-header against Tanzania in November as they aim to get their AFCON 2027 qualification bid back on course.
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