By VICTOR OKOYE

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has welcomed the pressure of the Round of 16, expressing excitement as Nigeria prepare for the knockout phase of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a strike by Paul Onuachu and a brace by midfielder Raphael Onyedika lifted a remarkably different Nigeria team to a 3-1 win over Uganda in their final Group C encounter.

Onuachu, started ahead of Akor Adams as Chelle made several changes to the squad that defeated Tanzania and Tunisia.

“Playing in the Round of 16 comes with pressure because it is a knockout stage, but I am excited and really looking forward to the game,” Chelle said.

The coach said finishing top of Group C boosted confidence, adding that remaining in Fès has helped the team maintain stability and focus.

“We feel good finishing top of our group and staying in Fès. The town, hotel, people and atmosphere are calm and perfect for concentration,” he said.

Chelle noted that the Eagles have enjoyed consistent training routines, despite challenging weather conditions in Morocco.

“We have our pitch and can train two to three hours daily. The weather is very cold, but we must adapt and keep working,” he said.

Reflecting on his touchline demeanour, Chelle said experience has helped him manage emotions better during matches.

“If you watch closely, I am calmer than at the last AFCON. I stay focused and take each game as it comes,” he said.

The Malian tactician admitted that tactical risks are part of football, stressing belief in his philosophy.

“I have my vision. Sometimes it works very well, sometimes it doesn’t. That is football,” Chelle said.

Chelle revealed that experimentation in Nigeria’s final group match against Uganda paid off.

“Against Uganda, we tried something new and I am happy with the result. But we must keep improving if we want to remain ambitious,” he said.

He praised the players’ commitment and depth, describing competition for places as healthy for the squad.

“The players worked very hard. Those selected showed their quality, scored three goals and gave a good account of themselves,” he said.

The coach admitted selection decisions are becoming tougher as the tournament progresses.

“Now I have a small selection headache. Everyone can play, and that is perfect for a coach,” Chelle said.

Nigeria finished the group stage with maximum nine points and will face a third-placed team from Group F in the Round of 16.

Potential opponents include holders Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon or Mozambique, following the elimination of Comoros and Angola from Groups A and B.

The Round of 16 clash will be played on Monday, Jan. 5, in Fès.

Meanwhile, Tanzania reached the knockout stage for the first time after a 1-1 draw with Tunisia and will face host nation Morocco. (NAN)

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