‘He Was Our Best in Training’ — Chelle explains Chukwueze penalty call

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has defended his decision to bring on Samuel Chukwueze moments before the penalty shootout in Nigeria’s semi-final loss to Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria crashed out of the competition after a 4–2 defeat on penalties, following a tense goalless draw that stretched through extra time at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Wednesday.

Chukwueze, who was introduced late in extra time, failed to convert his spot kick — one of two crucial misses, alongside Bruno Onyemaechi’s, that sealed the Super Eagles’ exit from the tournament.

The substitution has since drawn heavy criticism from fans, many of whom questioned the logic behind bringing on a cold player solely for the shootout.

However, speaking at the post-match press conference, Chelle maintained that the decision was guided by data, not impulse.

> “I put Chukwueze on for the penalty session because we had worked on penalties in all our training sessions,” Chelle explained.
“Based on the statistics, the players who took kicks tonight were the best performers during the penalty drills. That’s why they were selected.”

The coach stressed that his choice was consistent with the team’s preparation model, adding that all five penalty takers had shown strong accuracy throughout practice sessions.

Chelle also declined to single out any player for blame, insisting that the shootout defeat was part of football’s unpredictability.

The semi-final loss marks Nigeria’s second penalty heartbreak in less than a year, following their 4–3 defeat to DR Congo in the final playoff for the 2026 FIFA World Cup last November.

Despite the disappointment, Chelle praised his team’s effort and resilience throughout the competition, describing the players as “warriors who gave everything for the badge.”