By: Jerry Udoh

The Super Eagles have indeed given Nigerians a glimmer of hope and something to celebrate about this festive period with the Eagles soaring in Morocco.

So far, we are the highest-scoring side in the 35th African Cup of Nations, ongoing in the Kingdom of Morocco, with 8 goals in the group stages.

The Eagles have scored an average of 2 goals or more per game, and on a positive note, different players, including defenders, have been hitting the target at will, a big plus to the team.

Eagles Soaring, but Chelle’s Flawed

However, one noticeable flaw in the team has been conceding goals late in games (especially from the 70th minute). The team has let in half the number of goals scored so far and conceded in all 3 group games.

This is a disturbing trend that must be addressed as they enter the knockout stage. The biggest worry of the defence is being guilty of ball-watching and failing to track the movement of their opponents, especially off the ball.

Tanzania and Uganda scored similar goals against the Eagles in this tournament, running from behind unmarked and finishing. Another noticeable flaw is the inability to deal effectively with Set pieces.

Deja Vu

Twice under Austin Eguavoen, we amassed maximum points in the group stage (2006 & 2021), but still fell short in the crucial stages, winning a bronze in the former and embarrassingly exiting in the round of 16 in the latter despite emerging group leaders, even if we appreciate Eguavoen’s input in the team.

Eric Chelle has done well with the team so far. However, he must address the defensive issue and also train his boys on penalties from now on (as it was obvious they didn’t do so during the World Cup playoffs).

The coach should also keep the confidence level in check at this stage. Winning the title is still a distant feat, though, with tougher opponents ahead, but it is no harm to dream.

Very true is the popular saying that attack wins matches, but defence wins championships. Can the Eagles replicate the Super Falcons’ heroics in Morocco? It is still too early; let’s not pressure the team, but anything is possible.