Eric Chelle praises Nigeria unsung hero at AFCON

Africa 07 January 2026 at 13:36

Hlayisani Magoro

News Editor

Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle has reserved special praise for midfielder Alex Iwobi for his scintillating performances at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The 29-year-old has been a vital cog in the heart of the Super Eagles' midfield, having featured in three games in which he played the full 90 minutes.

Though he was rested for the final group game against Uganda as Nigeria had secured qualification to the knockout stages, Iwobi has chipped in with two assists at the tournament.

However, his exploits are often overshadowed by star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, but not for Chelle, who waxed lyrical about the Fulham star.

“There are some players who smell the football. This guy has a big IQ of the football, he sees the game before the other players and technically when he puts some movements he's very good,” said the Nigeria boss.

"Since the AFCON started, we see this guy is a very good player, he's actually like [the heartbeat of] the team.

While he's elated with Iwobi's showing, the French-Malian tactician urged the Arsenal academy graduate to keep his feet on the ground to maintain the performances.

“So, the most important thing is to do that every game after game. Once again, we have to stay focused. Alex has to stay focused, continue to work, continue to drive, try to be better than the last game, but I'm very proud of him and the team as well,” Chelle added.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will lock horns with Algeria in the quarter-final of the continental showpiece on Saturday, 10 January, with a spot in the last four at stake.