Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, has defended his decision not to bring in William Troost-Ekong, the team’s top penalty taker, during the World Cup playoff against DR Congo.
Nigeria lost the match on penalties, and many fans questioned why Troost-Ekong stayed on the bench throughout the game, especially when it became clear the match would go into a shootout.
Instead of bringing him on, Chelle chose to introduce defender Chidozie Awaziem in the last 10 minutes of extra time.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Chelle said he made the decision based on what he saw on the pitch.
He explained that the team practiced penalties the day before, but he still felt Nigeria was under threat in the final minutes, so he needed to add another defender.
He said it is easy for people to judge now, but at that moment, he made the choice he believed was best.
Chelle added that he won’t dwell on the loss and will now focus on preparing for the next competition.
Post a Comment