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‘He was the best in training’: Eric Chelle defends Chukwueze penalty selection
Nigeria were denied final spot after losing 4–2 on penalties to the Atlas Lions, with Chukwueze missing a crucial kick that would have put the Super Eagles 2–1 ahead in the shoot-out. Bruno Onyemaechi also failed to convert his effort.
Speaking after the match, Chelle defended his winger and made it clear he would not single out any player for blame.
“We put Chukwueze for penalties because the guys who kicked the penalties were the best in training,” Chelle said.
The Malian tactician stressed that Chukwueze’s selection was based purely on performance during practice sessions, not reputation or seniority.
Reflecting on the overall display, Chelle admitted Nigeria did not reach the same technical level they showed in previous games.
“Our technicality was not like the same from last match,” he said. “I don’t want to say we were tired, but that’s not the level.”
Nigeria had forced the game to penalties after a tense semi-final contest but ultimately fell short, bringing their AFCON 2025 campaign to an end at the last-four stage.
Chelle stands by Chukwueze despite penalty miss, was he right to trust training over reputation? Share your thoughts below.