Eric Chelle Dismisses Revenge Talk Ahead of Algeria Clash, Vows to Stick to His Game Plan

Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle has reiterated his commitment to discipline and strategy ahead of Nigeria’s blockbuster quarter-final clash with Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), insisting that revenge will play no part in his team’s approach.

Nigeria and Algeria, two of Africa’s traditional heavyweights, will meet on Saturday at the Stade de Marrakech, Ouahat Sidi Ibrahim, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.

The fixture has revived memories of the 2019 AFCON semi-final, where Algeria edged Nigeria thanks to a dramatic late free-kick from Riyad Mahrez.

However, Chelle was emphatic that his focus is firmly on the present.

“It’s crucial for me to maintain focus on the pitch,” Chelle said. “While energy matters, the mindset is paramount. Our group will remain united.”

The Franco-Malian tactician acknowledged the quality of the opposition, describing Algeria as a well-organised and professionally run side, but stressed that Nigeria will remain true to its own identity.

“This match is critical against a formidable opponent. We are in the process of determining our game plan,” he explained. “I hold a deep respect for this Algerian team; their staff operates with exceptional professionalism. I’m not dwelling on revenge for 2019. My priority is to compete fiercely and secure qualification.”

Chelle also addressed the growing spotlight on attacking stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, both of whom have been central to Nigeria’s impressive run at the tournament.

“Yes, there’s a lot of talk around Osimhen and Lookman; that’s only natural as they are currently two of the best African players,” he said. “However, our purpose is clear—we support them, create opportunities, and drive to score. We are a cohesive unit, and success hinges on our teamwork.”

With Nigeria unbeaten so far in the competition and Algeria boasting one of the tournament’s strongest defensive records, Saturday’s encounter is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the 2025 AFCON.

Samuel Ahmadu

Samuel Ahmadu is a distinguished multimedia journalist and women's football expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry. On the back of domestic engagement since 2008, he began his international career journey at Goal.com in February 2014, where he served as an African women's football correspondent for nearly eight years. During his tenure at Goal.com, Samuel covered major events such as three Women's Africa Cup of Nations (2016, 2018, 2022) and the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada plus 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. His work at Goal.com earned him widespread acclaim, particularly for his in-depth profiles of African football stars, notably Asisat Oshoala, whose rise he documented from her early years to her breakthrough at the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in 2014. Prior to his role at Goal.com, Samuel freelanced for various print and broadcast media outlets in Nigeria, including Graphics Newspaper, Radio Nigeria, Grace FM, and Savid Newspaper. His extensive experience and expertise led to his appointment to the Nigeria Football Federation's Standing Committee on Women's Football Development from 2016 to 2018. Since February 2018, Samuel has been the Social Media Manager for Nigeria's women's national teams.In 2019, Samuel joined the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a women's football content contributor and was promoted to Women's Football Editor in 2021. His contributions to women's football continued as he worked as a Media Consultant for Content Creation and Editorials at the 2022 CAF Women's Champions League. Currently, Samuel also serves as the spokesman for the Nigeria Women Football League, further solidifying his influence and dedication to the growth of women's football in Africa.

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