Super Eagles Coach Eyes Perfect Group Stage Record in Final Clash Despite Qualification.

Eric Chelle

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has hinted at possible squad rotation for the Super Eagles‘ final Group C fixture against Uganda at AFCON 2025, but stressed his intention to field the strongest possible side to secure a third consecutive win.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Monday, December 29, in Fez, Chelle responded to questions about resting regulars and giving minutes to unused players: “Everybody deserve a chance to show something because a player who played just five minutes at the AFCON can score the decisive goal. This is a question about management and it’s not a question or lack of respect for the tournament. For me I want to put out the best team, I want to win, the players want to win this game.”

The Super Eagles have already sealed top spot in Group C and progression to the Round of 16 with victories over Tanzania (2-1) and Tunisia (3-2), showcasing attacking flair but defensive vulnerabilities late on.

On the injury front, Chelle provided reassurance:
“There are no serious injuries, some players have issues with their knee or ankle, but they want to play. We will see after the last training session.”

He also defended his substitution decisions in previous games: “When I make substitutions, I analyse what is happening in the game. Sometimes the choice works very well, sometimes it doesn’t. That is football. The reality is that we won. The reality is that we scored goals. That is also important.”

Uganda, needing a win to keep faint hopes of advancing alive, have vowed to fight, but Chelle’s focus remains on maintaining momentum for the knockout stages.

The match kicks off on Tuesday, December 30, at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. A perfect group record would boost Nigeria’s confidence in their quest for a fourth title.