AFCON 2025: Chelle hints tactical changes as ‘fatigued’ Super Eagles face Morocco
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has hinted at a possible tactical adjustment ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 semi-final against hosts Morocco, acknowledging that fatigue is beginning to show within his squad.
Nigeria have been the tournament’s most dominant side so far, winning all five matches, scoring a competition-high 14 goals and overwhelming opponents with an aggressive, high-intensity style.
That approach has carried the Super Eagles past Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Mozambique and Algeria to the last four.
However, with the business end of the tournament now in view, Chelle has conceded that the physical demands of that approach may require recalibration.
Fatigue influences tactical thinking
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Malian tactician admitted that his players are feeling the strain and suggested Nigeria may adopt a more measured strategy against Morocco.
“I find that my group is tired; it might be time for me to change my approach,” Chelle said.
“We’ll start that way, I think. We’ll hold on in the first half and try to play our game in the second half.”
The comments point to a potential shift away from Nigeria’s usual front-foot dominance, possibly allowing Morocco more possession early on while the Super Eagles manage their energy levels.
Morocco a different test
Despite Nigeria’s emphatic 2-0 quarter-final win over Algeria, Chelle was keen to stress that Morocco present a different tactical challenge and should not be judged by comparisons with previous opponents.
“Algeria and Morocco are two good teams with good players,” he said. “But Morocco doesn’t play like Algeria, and Walid Regragui isn’t Vladimir Petkovic. I’ll have to work, and my group too, to beat this team tomorrow.”
Nigeria have already overcome two North African sides at AFCON 2025, but Morocco’s structure, discipline and home advantage make Wednesday’s encounter a distinct proposition.
High stakes in Rabat
The semi-final will be played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with a place in Sunday’s final on the line. The winner will face either Egypt or Senegal.
