Victor Osimhen has called on Nigerians to recognize the “tactical brilliance” and leadership of head coach Eric Chelle. Osimhen, who has been a focal point of Nigeria’s attack throughout the tournament, stated that the coach’s meticulous preparation and ability to build a cohesive unit have been the primary drivers behind the team’s deep run in the competition.
Osimhen highlighted that Chelle brought a new level of discipline and a “clear identity” to the Super Eagles, something he felt had been lacking in previous years. “The coach has done a great job in making us believe in a specific system. He understands the players and knows how to get the best out of everyone,” Osimhen remarked during a pre-match press conference. The reigning African Footballer of the Year noted that the players are fully committed to Chelle’s vision, and the positive atmosphere in the dressing room is a testament to the coach’s man-management skills.
These comments from the team’s most influential player serve as a strong vote of confidence for Chelle, especially as the Super Eagles faced the daunting task of playing the Atlas Lions in front of a partisan home crowd. Osimhen’s praise underscores a shift in the team’s internal culture, moving away from individual brilliance toward a structured, team-oriented approach that has made Nigeria one of the most difficult teams to score against in the 2025 tournament
