Anxiety has gripped the DR Congo camp after Super Eagles coach, Marcello Chelle, delivered a stern assessment of his team’s performance despite their hard-fought win over Gabon, insisting the job is far from done.
Chelle, speaking during the post-match press briefing, cautioned against premature excitement, noting that the decisive encounter against DR Congo in two days would determine whether Nigeria could truly “smile”.
“They did win against Gabon, but this is nothing because they have another game in two days. Maybe after the second game, we can smile,” he warned.
The coach admitted the victory was deserved but stressed that the team must correct key mistakes ahead of the next clash.
“We did a lot of good things, but bad things too. We have to correct some things for the second game, but I am confident in my players,” he said. “I want us to do better in the second game.”
Chelle praised his squad’s unity and resilience, noting that their togetherness remained intact whether in victory or defeat.
“I am very proud of the guys because they are focused on what I want. They work together. If they win, they are together; if they lose, they are together.”
Reflecting on the match against Gabon, he highlighted the strong early momentum shown by the Super Eagles.
“In the first 30 minutes, we were so good with intensity, aggression and ball possession, while Gabon played on the counter,” he explained.
According to him, despite creating numerous chances in the first half and switching systems effectively to score after the break, a lapse in positioning gifted Gabon their equaliser, forcing an unexpected extra-time battle.
“Everything was good, but we made a little mistake in our positioning and they scored. We didn’t think we would go to extra time.”
Chelle maintained that his players have grown significantly in mentality and technical discipline, assuring fans that the team understands his philosophy and is ready to fight.
As anticipation builds towards the showdown with DR Congo, Chelle’s caution has stirred tension across the opposition camp, with the Leopards now bracing for a more ruthless, corrected, and mentally sharper Nigerian side.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
