2026 WCQ: Chelle admits tactical error in Nigeria’s draw with South Africa

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has admitted that a tactical decision cost Nigeria in their 1-1 draw against South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein.

Nigeria fell behind in the 22nd minute when William Troost-Ekong scored an own goal, before Calvin Bassey equalised before half time to secure a point for the visitors.

Speaking after the match, Chelle explained that the decision to defend one-on-one at the back in the opening stages left his team vulnerable.

“We wanted to take a risk in the first half to stay one-on-one behind because for us the win was what we wanted,” Chelle told reporters.

“Just 22 minutes in, we conceded a goal, but after that, we had the state of mind to come back.”

He praised both teams for their performance despite difficult pitch conditions.

“It was a great game with a lot of intensity and aggressivity. Congratulations to South Africa, they played a great game, Nigeria team too,” he added.

The result leaves Nigeria in third place in their qualifying group, behind South Africa and Benin Republic.