Chelle, Iwobi Attribute Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 Form to Tactical Shift and Team Unity

Chelle, Iwobi Attribute Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 Form to Tactical Shift and Team Unity

By Niyi Busari 

"Why We Play Differently At 2025 AFCON" Chelle, Iwobi Explain 

By Niyi Busari 

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle and midfielder Alex Iwobi have shed light on the factors behind Nigeria’s impressive performances at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Nigeria have been one of the standout teams of the tournament, winning all five of their matches so far and scoring 14 goals, a record that makes them the only side to maintain a perfect winning run at the competition.

Speaking at pre-match press conference in Rabat on Tuesday, Chelle revealed that a tactical adjustment has played a significant role in the team’s resurgence. The coach explained that the Super Eagles switched from a 4-4-2 setup to a more fluid 4-3-3 formation, a move that has brought balance and consistency to their play.

“When I resumed as Super Eagles coach, I was advised to play through the wings, and we adopted a 4-4-2 formation,” Chelle said. “At times it worked, and at other times it didn’t. At this tournament, however, we have been using a 4-3-3 formation, and it has clearly improved our performances.”

Midfield playmaker Alex Iwobi also addressed the media, highlighting improved unity and togetherness within the squad as a key factor behind their success.

“I can’t really pinpoint one specific reason why we’re playing so well compared to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers,” Iwobi said. “But what I do know is that we are playing together as a family. There is a stronger bond among the players, and we have been together for more than three weeks now. Thank God the positive results are coming in our favour.”

The Super Eagles will face tournament hosts Morocco on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, with a place in the final at stake.