Eric Chelle addresses Nigeria defensive frailties ahead of Algeria clash | OneFootball

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Chelle on Nigeria defensive woes

Photo: Eric Chelle

Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle has addressed his team's defensive frailties ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final clash against Algeria on Saturday.

The Super Eagles have been one of the standout teams in the continental showpiece, having scored a staggering 12 goals in four matches.

However, their showing at the other end of the pitch has let a lot to be desired as they have shipped in four goals - two against Tunisia and each against Tanzania and Uganda.

When quizzed on whether he's concerned about the defensive woes ahead of facing a much stronger opponent, Chelle pointed out that Algeria are yet to face a tougher opponent themselves.

“The other team is in the same case as us, they didn't play some good teams. You [media] have your vision, you can say what you want. The fact is we scored 12 goals [and] we took some goals,” he said.

The French-Malian tactician went on to state that his mandate is to ensure the team scores ample goals, but acknowledged a solid defensive display is key to reigning supreme in a major tournament.

“My vision is to try and improve after every game but sometimes when you don't score people tell you we have to score some goals. I think the fans in the stadium are happy when they come to watch our games,” Chelle added.

"So, the football is like that, when I took this job I gave a promise during my first press conference - my promise was that we will score some goals, we never talk about the defense. My first speech was football is a question about scoring goals.

"I just do what I said. If you want to win a tournament you have to be strong in defense but don't forget Ola [Aina] is not here, William Troost-Ekong is not here and Benjamin Frederick is not here, so we work every day to try to improve in defense, midfield, and forward line.