“I am not worried” – Chelle plays down three defensive absences at AFCON 2025
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has dismissed concerns over Nigeria’s defensive depth ahead of AFCON 2025, insisting the absence of three established defenders will not derail the team’s title ambitions in Morocco.
Nigeria will begin the tournament without Benjamin Fredrick, Ola Aina and former captain William Troost-Ekong, all of whom were central to the team’s recent defensive setup.
Despite that, Chelle maintains full confidence in the squad at his disposal.
Chelle unfazed by missing defenders
Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s Group C opener against Tanzania, the Malian tactician made it clear that the situation does not trouble him.
“I am not worried. I trust my guys. Of course I would have loved to have all of the players in the team. We will work a lot on defence but it is not only about the defenders but all the players as a whole,” Chelle said at the pre-match press conference.
Key absences reshape Nigeria’s back line
Fredrick had emerged as one of Chelle’s most reliable options before suffering an injury in November that ruled him out of the tournament.
Aina, a key part of Nigeria’s run to the AFCON final last year, was also left out as he continues his recovery from a prolonged injury spell.
The most significant loss is Troost-Ekong, who retired from international football weeks before the competition.
The former Super Eagles captain exits as the reigning AFCON Most Valuable Player, the first Nigerian defender to claim the award.
New faces handed responsibility
In response, Chelle has recalled Chidozie Awaziem, handed Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu his first senior call-up, and included Slavia Prague centre-back Igoh Ogbu, who is set for his AFCON debut.
The coach believes the combination of fresh energy and existing familiarity within the squad will compensate for the lack of tournament experience.
Focus firmly on Tanzania opener
Beyond selection issues, Chelle stressed the importance of starting strongly against Tanzania.
“We are happy to be here. For this game, it is a big one because this is the first match of the AFCON and the first game is very important every time and for sure, we want to win this game.”
Future talks on hold
Chelle also made it clear that discussions about his long-term future with the Nigeria Football Federation are not a priority during the tournament.
“I am only focused on this tournament. I will have a meeting with my football association about everything but my focus at the moment is about the tournament and my players.”
Nigeria face Tanzania on Tuesday as they open their AFCON 2025 campaign, looking to demonstrate that squad depth, not just established names, can sustain a serious push for a fourth continental title.
