Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has attributed Nigeria’s impressive run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations to the tactical influence and leadership of head coach Eric Chelle, saying the Franco-Malian has successfully harnessed the squad’s depth and talent.
Nigeria have emerged as one of the tournament’s most dominant sides, recording five wins from five matches, scoring 14 goals and keeping two clean sheets under Chelle. The Super Eagles’ free-flowing attacking football has also won praises from fans and analysts alike.
Chelle, who has been in charge for just over a year, remains unbeaten in regular and extra time, a record that will be tested when the Super Eagles face hosts Morocco in tonight’s semi-final.
Speaking with CBS Sports Golazo, Osimhen highlighted the calm and confidence within the camp, stressing that the players have fully embraced the coach’s philosophy.
“About 70% to 80% of players in our squad have played football at the highest level, so, for me, the whole squad is calm,” he said.
“We’re just doing our job, doing what the coach wants us to do and playing how he wants us to.”
The Galatasaray forward said Chelle deserves significant credit for bringing structure and clarity to a talented group.
“I think he deserves a lot of praise, as well as the rest of the squad, because we’ve been playing amazingly well,” Osimhen added.
“We know we have the squad, we have the talent to play, but now we’ve got someone to put this talent in its place, who knows when to unleash the beast in his squad.”
Osimhen also praised the team’s collective mindset, noting that responsibility has been shared across the squad.
“I’m really pleased with the squad, I’m happy with the mentality. It’s not just about the leaders; it’s about everyone taking responsibility, and they’ve done that so far,” he said.
Looking ahead to the semi-final showdown, Osimhen acknowledged Morocco’s quality and home support but insisted Nigeria are mentally prepared.
“They have a very good squad, talented players, but I think we are one of the most feared teams within this tournament,” he said.
“There is no pressure; we take it as it comes. We just display something for the world to see; we’re up for this trophy.”
The striker dismissed concerns over the intimidating atmosphere, pointing to the squad’s experience at the highest level.
“Many of us have played in stadiums packed with 90,000 people. For me, there’s no pressure. When the game comes, we go for the win. It won’t be easy, but we’ve got a chance,” Osimhen stated.
The semi-final will take place at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, with kick-off set for 9:00 PM WAT, as Nigeria aim to extend their unbeaten run and move one step closer to the AFCON 2025 title.
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