By Michael Okosi
Head coach Eric Chelle has dismissed claims that Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign would have been a better experience if they had conceded fewer or no goals at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Franco-Malian faced the press Friday evening ahead of Saturday’s quarterfinals meeting with the Desert Foxes of Algeria.
The Eagles have scored 12 goals in the tournament and seemed to emerge as one of the bookmakers’ choices for the title come January 18.
Chelle however pointed to the absences of William Troost-Ekong (retirement), Ola Aina and Benjamin Frederick (injuries) as a critical reason for the defensive deficiencies experienced by the three-time African champions in Morocco.
“I always want the team to progress from one match to another. Sometimes people complain when you don’t score, but the supporters enjoy coming to watch us play. Football is about goals.
“We are missing important players, but we work every day to improve – in defense, midfield and attack.
Speaking on the promise he made to the Nigeria Football Federation at the time of appointment and how other African sided face similar on-field issues, the former Mali boss stated:
“Our situation is not very different from theirs,” Chelle said. “They also haven’t faced very strong opponents. Everyone can have their opinion. The reality is we scored many goals and we conceded some.”
The Franco-Malian coach explained that his philosophy is centered on constant improvement and attacking football, while admitting that defensive solidity remains vital in tournament football.
“I always want the team to progress from one match to another,” he stated. “Sometimes people complain when you don’t score, but the supporters enjoy coming to watch us play. Football is about goals.”
“When I took this job, I said clearly that my aim was for us to score goals. That has been my message from the start,” he added.
“But if you truly want to win a competition, you must also be strong defensively.”
