Nigeria’s Super Eagles are brimming with confidence and tactical flexibility ahead of their crucial Group encounter against Tunisia at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, following encouraging words from head coach Eric Chelle and captain Wilfred Ndidi.
Both sides head into the highly anticipated clash level on three points after winning their opening matches, setting the stage for another intense chapter in one of Africa’s most historic football rivalries. With 21 previous meetings producing six wins apiece and nine draws, the latest showdown promises fine margins and high drama.
Speaking ahead of the match, Coach Chelle declined to reveal his starting line-up but hinted at possible tactical adjustments against a strong Tunisian side.
I cannot talk about my starting eleven, Chelle said. You will see that at the beginning of the game. In my mind, I have two options. One is to allow Tunisia have the ball and then, when we win it back, go directly to score. The other is to continue with our philosophy. Tunisia are a very good team, so maybe we will change something.
Chelle’s comments underline Nigeria’s readiness to adapt, as the Super Eagles seek to assert themselves early in the competition and secure qualification to the Round of 16.
Team captain Wilfred Ndidi also struck an upbeat note, stressing that morale within the squad remains high despite lessons learned from the opening game.
The team spirit is very high after the first game, Ndidi said. There were some areas we needed to improve on, and we have taken that from the last match. Going into this one, we are very well prepared.
The Besiktas midfielder also referenced past encounters with Tunisia, including the painful 1–0 defeat at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, but insisted the team is focused firmly on the present.
It was a painful loss in 2019, and it gives us more motivation, Ndidi added. But we don’t want to dwell on what happened before. This is a new team with good players and a strong group. We’ve talked about it, and it’s not something we expect to happen again.
With history, pride and early qualification at stake, the Super Eagles will look to blend tactical discipline with attacking intent as they face a determined Tunisian side, knowing that another positive result would further strengthen their status as contenders for the AFCON crown.
