Eric Chelle addresses Nigeria defensive frailties ahead of Algeria clash

Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle has addressed his team's defensive frailties ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final clash against Algeria on Saturday.

The Super Eagles have been one of the standout teams in the continental showpiece, having scored a staggering 12 goals in four matches.

However, their showing at the other end of the pitch has let a lot to be desired as they have shipped in four goals - two against Tunisia and each against Tanzania and Uganda.

When quizzed on whether he's concerned about the defensive woes ahead of facing a much stronger opponent, Chelle pointed out that Algeria are yet to face a tougher opponent themselves.

“The other team is in the same case as us, they didn't play some good teams. You [media] have your vision, you can say what you want. The fact is we scored 12 goals [and] we took some goals,” he said.

The French-Malian tactician went on to state that his mandate is to ensure the team scores ample goals, but acknowledged a solid defensive display is key to reigning supreme in a major tournament.

“My vision is to try and improve after every game but sometimes when you don't score people tell you we have to score some goals. I think the fans in the stadium are happy when they come to watch our games,” Chelle added.

"So, the football is like that, when I took this job I gave a promise during my first press conference - my promise was that we will score some goals, we never talk about the defense. My first speech was football is a question about scoring goals.

"I just do what I said. If you want to win a tournament you have to be strong in defense but don't forget Ola [Aina] is not here, William Troost-Ekong is not here and Benjamin Frederick is not here, so we work every day to try to improve in defense, midfield, and forward line.

Hlayisani Magoro

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Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.