Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has emphasized the importance of a strong mentality for his players when they face Guinea-Bissau in Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. The match will take place at the Estádio 24 de Setembro in Bissau, where both teams will aim to build on their opening-day victories. Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, while Guinea-Bissau secured a 2-0 away win over Tanzania.
Chelle expects a challenging encounter against Guinea-Bissau, who will be boosted by their opening-day victory. He has been monitoring the progress of the Djurtus and is aware of the threat they pose, particularly on home soil. The Nigeria coach expressed respect for Guinea-Bissau, citing their strength as a team. He noted that their win in Tanzania will give them added confidence for the upcoming match.
The Super Eagles will look to secure their second consecutive win in the qualifying campaign, with Chelle stressing that a strong mentality is crucial for success. He stated that the team’s objective is to take all three points and that they must be at their best to achieve victory. Chelle made these comments during Monday’s pre-match press conference, where he addressed the team’s preparations and expectations.
Guinea-Bissau’s victory over Tanzania has given them momentum, and the three points at stake could provide either side with an early advantage in Group L. Both Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau currently have three points after the opening round of matches. The upcoming match will be a significant test for the Super Eagles, who will need to adapt to the playing surface at the Estádio 24 de Setembro.
The condition of the pitch at the Estádio 24 de Setembro has been acknowledged by Chelle, who insisted that it must not become a distraction for his players. The Super Eagles held their official training session at the stadium on Monday evening, with all 24 invited players participating in the 65-minute session. The team trained under a light shower of rain as preparations intensified for their first away test of the qualifying campaign.
Nigeria’s opening win was marked by notable performances, including George Ilenikhena’s first senior international goal and Moses Usor’s winning goal on his senior debut. Guinea-Bissau’s Franculino Djú and Mama Baldé scored in their 2-0 victory over Tanzania. The Super Eagles will need to be at their best to overcome the challenges posed by Guinea-Bissau and the playing conditions.
The Super Eagles face a tough test of their resolve and skill as they seek to build on their opening win. With a strong mentality and focus, Chelle is confident that his team can overcome the challenges and secure a positive result in Bissau. The match will be an important step in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with both teams vying for a crucial win.
Key points
- Éric Chelle emphasizes the importance of a strong mentality for the Super Eagles ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau.
