Chelle Urges Patience for Home-Based Players After Win

Eric Chelle, the head coach of the Super Eagles, conveyed a clear message regarding the development of Nigerian home-based players after the team's 2-0 victory against Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup semi-final on Tuesday night. Chelle noted that he observed Femi Azeez's brace, which secured Nigeria's win.

The squad included players from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), such as Michael Atata, Aderemi Adeoy, Tosin Oyedokun, Chibuez Oputa, Obinna Igbokw, and Elia Ochobi. In a post-match interview, Chelle emphasized the necessity for time to work with these domestic players as part of a small project aimed at enhancing their performance.

He expressed satisfaction with the team's display against Zimbabwe but acknowledged the challenges faced by players transitioning from local leagues to international competition, indicating that the pressure can be high, especially for those experiencing such a transition for the first time.