Former Green Eagles goalkeeper Etta Egbe has cautioned Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle that Nigeria must urgently address their inability to finish matches strongly as the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations begins.
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Egbe expressed concern over the team’s tendency to concede goals even when they are in control of matches, describing it as a dangerous habit that could prove costly in knockout football. He noted that Nigeria have dominated large spells of games at the tournament but have often allowed opponents back into matches through lapses in concentration.
According to the former goalkeeper, such mistakes become more damaging at this stage of the competition, where there is no room for recovery once a team loses control. He stressed that maintaining focus from the first whistle to the final moments is essential if Nigeria hopes to progress deep into the tournament.
Egbe added that defensive discipline is not limited to the backline alone, pointing out that midfielders and attackers also have a role to play in protecting leads and managing game tempo. He urged the technical crew to find lasting solutions quickly as the Super Eagles prepare for tougher opposition.
With Nigeria set to face Mozambique in the Round of 16 on 5 January in Fès, Egbe believes correcting these late-game issues could be the difference between lifting the trophy and an early exit.
