Possession or Precision: Eric Chelle debates strategy for Tunisia battle

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Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has suggested he may change Nigeria’s playing style ahead of their crucial Group C match against Tunisia at the 1xBet Official Sponsor AFCON 2025 in Morocco.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Friday in Fez, Chelle said he is thinking carefully about whether to stick with his usual possession-based football or switch to a more direct approach to deal with Tunisia’s strength and experience.

“I can’t talk about my starting eleven now; you will see that at kick-off,” Chelle said.

“But I can say I am thinking of two options. One is to allow Tunisia have more of the ball and then attack directly when we regain possession. The second is to continue with our normal philosophy. Tunisia are a strong team, so we may change something.”

His comments show how important the match is for Nigeria’s campaign.

Group C Situation: Everything to Play For

Nigeria currently sit second in Group C with three points after a hard-fought 2–1 win against Tanzania in their opening match. Tunisia topped the group on goal difference after beating Uganda 3–1.

Both teams are level on points, and the stakes are clear: a win will guarantee qualification to the knockout stage and give the winner a strong chance of finishing top of the group. That could lead to a more favourable opponent in the next round.

The match in Fez is not just about three points it is about momentum, confidence, and control of the group.

Painful History Still Fresh

The history between Nigeria and Tunisia adds extra tension to the encounter. Tunisia have won seven of their 21 meetings, while Nigeria have six victories.

However, the most painful memory for Nigerian fans came at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon. Nigeria entered the round-of-16 match as favourites after winning all their group games, including a famous victory over Egypt.

Tunisia, who barely made it into the knockout stage, shocked Nigeria with a 1–0 win. A red card for Alex Iwobi and a goal from Youssef Msakni ended Nigeria’s tournament earlier than expected.

That defeat still hurts and serves as motivation for the Super Eagles.

Ndidi: We Are Ready to Correct Our Mistakes

Team captain Wilfred Ndidi admitted the players have discussed that loss to Tunisia but insisted the team is focused on getting a better result this time.

“We talked about that defeat, and we hope it won’t happen again,” Ndidi said.

“But this is a new match, a new team, and a new opportunity.”

The midfielder added that the Super Eagles are not under pressure, despite missing out on qualification for the FIFA World Cup.

“There is no pressure on us,” Ndidi said.

“We didn’t qualify for the World Cup, but this tournament is another chance to correct our mistakes and achieve something special.”

He stressed that the team is fully prepared and united in purpose.

A Big Night in Fez

Nigeria and Tunisia will meet on Saturday night in Fez, with both teams confident and determined.