CAN 2025 – Nigeria: "It will be 50/50," Eric Chelle refuses to underestimate Algeria

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·9 January 2026

CAN 2025 – Nigeria: "It will be 50/50," Eric Chelle refuses to underestimate Algeria

CAN 2025 – Nigeria: Chelle puts Algeria on equal footing

CAN 2025 – Nigeria: "It will be 50/50," Eric Chelle refuses to underestimate Algeria

OneFootball Videos

Ahead of the CAN 2025 quarter-final clash against Algeria, Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle delivered a measured, respectful, and clear-eyed statement.

"This is a match of great significance against a top team. We're always thinking about how to approach this game," he began,

firmly rejecting any sense of overconfidence as he anticipates a balanced showdown.

Asked about the latest surrounding Victor Osimhen, Chelle deliberately shut the door on any side discussions:

"The Osimhen incident... I'd rather just talk about the match... Victor is here and that's all there is to it."

The coach emphasized the importance of the collective, despite having standout individuals:

"Yes, everyone talks about Osimhen and Lookman, and that's normal because they're the last two best African players, but we're here to support them so they can score—we work for them. We're a team and that's what makes it a team effort."

He reiterated his core message: