Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has pinpointed finishing as a critical area his team needs to improve, following Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Russia in an international friendly match played on Friday evening.
The match, which took place as part of Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming competitive fixtures, highlighted both strengths and lingering weaknesses within the squad.
Chelle, who took charge of the Nigerian national team earlier this year, expressed mixed feelings about the performance.
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While he commended the team’s overall approach and tactical discipline, he stressed that the inability to convert chances into goals remained a significant concern.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Chelle said, “We had control of the game in many moments, and our buildup play was encouraging. But we must be more clinical in front of goal. It’s not enough to create chances; we have to finish them.”
Nigeria opened the scoring in the 28th minute with a well-taken goal that came after a spell of pressure. However, their lead was canceled out by Russia midway through the second half.
Despite creating multiple opportunities to reclaim the advantage, the Super Eagles failed to convert, leaving the match level at the final whistle.
The friendly was played at a neutral venue, arranged amid tight scheduling as both teams prepare for continental tournaments.
Chelle used the opportunity to rotate his squad and test several young players, including some who were making their senior debuts. While the new additions showed promise, the coach noted that experience and composure in front of goal were still lacking.
Chelle was particularly vocal about missed chances in the second half, where Nigeria had at least three clear opportunities to score.
One of the most notable came in the 74th minute when a one-on-one situation was squandered by a forward who failed to beat the Russian goalkeeper. Another chance went begging in stoppage time as a close-range header was sent wide.
“This level requires precision,” Chelle said. “International football is decided in moments, and when you don’t take your chances, you risk losing or settling for a draw. We have to be sharper.”
Despite the disappointment in front of goal, the coach praised the team’s defensive organization and midfield control. He highlighted improvements in ball movement and pressing, areas that had been previously criticized during Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign.
Several key players were rested for the match, while others were unavailable due to club commitments or minor injuries.
Chelle stated that the friendly was a useful test of depth and provided insights into which players might be reliable options in upcoming World Cup qualifying fixtures.
The draw against Russia extends Nigeria’s unbeaten run under Chelle to four matches, with two wins and two draws since he assumed the role.
However, fans and analysts have expressed concerns over the team’s goal-scoring record, which has seen them score only five goals during that stretch.
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Chelle acknowledged the criticism but urged patience, explaining that the team is still in transition following a period of managerial instability and squad changes. He reiterated his commitment to building a team that not only plays attractive football but also delivers consistent results.
Looking ahead, the Super Eagles will face South Africa and Benin Republic in their next World Cup qualifiers. Chelle confirmed that finishing drills and attacking efficiency would be a major focus during the next training camp. He also hinted at the possibility of recalling experienced strikers who were not part of the current squad.
“We’ll go back and work on this. The players know it, and I’ve made it clear. We are on the right path, but we have to do more,” Chelle said.
As the Super Eagles continue their preparation for competitive action, fans will be watching closely to see if Chelle can address the team’s inefficiencies in front of goal and restore Nigeria’s reputation as one of Africa’s most formidable attacking sides.
