Guinea-Bissau Defeat Not The End For Super Eagles — Chelle

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted that Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations remain alive despite their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday.

Nigeria were comprehensively beaten by the Djurtus at the Estádio 24 de Setembro in Bissau, suffering a damaging setback just three days after opening their Group L campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo.

The defeat leaves the three-time African champions on three points from two matches, three points behind Guinea-Bissau, who moved to the top of the group with six points.

Chelle admitted that Guinea-Bissau were the better side on the night but pointed to the difficult playing conditions as factors that affected his players.

“They were more aggressive than us, they were better than us,” Chelle said after the match.

“It is not an excuse, but they know their pitch. They usually play on this pitch, but for us it was the first time and the pitch was very bad. The weather was very hot too.

“Guinea-Bissau entered the game more motivated and more aggressive. They put more intensity and we never found a solution.”

Nigeria attempted to respond after the interval but Chelle admitted that his team failed to sustain the pressure.

“We tried to go forward after half-time and bring something new, but after 10 minutes we stopped and I don’t know why,” he said.

Despite the heavy defeat, Chelle believes Nigeria can recover, with four qualifying matches still to play.

“This is not the end because there are lots of games to play. We have two games against Tanzania in November and we have to win both games,” he said.

“After that, we have Guinea-Bissau in Uyo and we need to put them in the same condition we had here.”

The Malian acknowledged that Nigeria’s position had become more difficult but maintained confidence in his players.

“The situation is not very good, but I am very confident about my team. We have four more games and anything can happen.

“We have to stay focused and calm. We know our strengths and weaknesses. Today was a bad day for us, but I am still confident about my team and my players.”