Super Eagles Coach Explains Rotation and Experimentation in 3-1 Group Finale.

Eric Chelle

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has explained that the final Group C match against Uganda – a 3-1 victory on December 30, 2025 – provided the perfect platform to experiment tactically and integrate squad players, with qualification already secured.

Speaking post-match in Fez, the Franco-Malian tactician said: “The game against Uganda was an opportunity for us to try other things, test some players who hadn’t played much, and manage the yellow cards of some key players.”

Chelle made several changes, handing debuts to Ryan Alebiosu (right-back, before his unfortunate serious injury) and rotating in midfield with Raphael Onyedika earning Man of the Match honors. The adjustments paid off as goals from Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and a third sealed a perfect nine points from three games.

Despite conceding (Uganda’s consolation), Chelle remained positive: “We wanted to finish the group with maximum points, and we did. Now we focus on recovery and preparation for the next stage.”

Super Eagles

The Super Eagles now turn attention to the Round of 16 against surprise package Mozambique on January 5 in Fez. Chelle’s pragmatic approach has kept the squad fresh and versatile – a smart move as the knockout intensity ramps up.

Confident and calculated – the Eagles are ready to soar deeper!