Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has admitted that his tactical risk backfired during the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.
An own goal from captain William Troost-Ekong put Bafana Bafana in front in the 22nd minute before Calvin Bassey equalised for Nigeria just before half-time.
Speaking after the game, Chelle revealed that his decision to set the team up one-on-one at the back left them vulnerable.
“We wanted to take a risk in the first half to stay one-on-one behind because for us the win was what we wanted,” Chelle said.
“We wanted to take a risk and just 22 minutes we took a goal, but after that we had the state of mind to come back.”
Chelle described the game as intense and praised both teams for their performances despite the difficult pitch.
The draw leaves Nigeria in third place in Group C, behind leaders South Africa and second-placed Benin Republic, with two matches left to play.
