Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has explained why Victor Osimhen was taken off before Nigeria lost to Morocco on penalties in the AFCON 2025 semi-final. The match ended goalless after extra time before Morocco won 4–2 in the shootout. Many fans were surprised that Osimhen did not take part in the penalties.
Speaking after the game, Chelle said Osimhen picked up a slight ankle injury during the match. Because of that, the technical team decided not to risk him during the penalty shootout. The coach explained that the decision was mainly for the safety of the player and the future of the team.
Chelle added that Paul was brought in because his recent penalty record made him one of the best options available at that moment. According to the coach, statistics showed Paul had been reliable from the spot in recent matches, which influenced the substitution.
Osimhen, who had already scored four goals in the tournament, could not add to his tally against Morocco. Despite the painful loss, Chelle praised his team’s effort and said the focus is now on learning from the experience and preparing better for future competitions.
