Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has insisted that Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman should not be blamed for Nigeria’s recent goalscoring issues, stressing that the problem lies more in the team’s transition through midfield than in the finishing of the forwards.
Although Nigeria were the only team to score in all their matches in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, their return of eleven goals in nine games before the final qualifier against Benin was far from convincing for a side boasting such attacking talent.
Of Osimhen’s six goals in the qualifying campaign, three came in the final fixture against the Cheetahs, a match in which Nigeria needed a dramatic last-minute goal from Frank Onyeka to secure a playoff spot as one of the best four second-placed teams.
The Super Eagles’ goals were spread across ten different scorers, including Akor Adams, Semi Ajayi, Tolu Arokodare, Calvin Bassey, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Kelechi Iheanacho, Raphael Onyedika and William Troost-Ekong, reflecting Chelle’s view that the team’s attacking output depends on collective contribution rather than individual brilliance.
Chelle emphasised that effective goalscoring depends on a coordinated build-up from the back, involving defenders, midfielders and forwards alike.
When asked by Segun Odegbami why Nigeria are struggling to score goals despite boasting the past and reigning African Footballer of the Year, Osimhen and Lookman, Chelle said in Abeokuta, “I don’t know if we have problems scoring goals.
“This is football; to score goals, you need to have a midfielder who gives the best ball, and to give the best ball, you need to have a defender who gives the best ball to the midfielder.”
The coach highlighted the importance of a strong midfield setup capable of maintaining possession and creating chances for the attackers.
“This is the question about the group and philosophy, the way that you play. This is why every time I try to play with a lot of midfielders, because I want to dominate possession, we can find a free player who can provide the best assist,” Chelle added.
Chelle also acknowledged the limited time he has had to implement his tactical ideas but expressed optimism about the team’s progress and growing cohesion.
“We don’t have a lot of time to work. For me, this team improves with every game, and I can adapt my game plan and philosophy to this team because now they understand me well, and I understand them well.
“We are focused on our project; this is the most important thing.”
Nigeria must combine attacking efficiency with defensive solidity when they take on Gabon’s Panthers in the World Cup playoff semifinals on November 13.
