Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has admitted that Nigeria are mentally prepared for the possibility of a penalty shootout as they take on host nation Morocco in their AFCON 2025 semi-final clash.
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Speaking in Rabat ahead of the high-stakes encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Chelle acknowledged that the finely balanced contest between two in-form sides could ultimately be decided from the spot.
Nigeria suffered heartbreak in November when they lost a World Cup intercontinental playoff to DR Congo via penalties, and the subject of shootouts remains fresh in the minds of players and fans alike.
Asked how the Super Eagles would handle another penalty scenario, Chelle responded with humour but also quiet realism.
“If we get to penalties, I will go to the mosque to pray to win,” the Franco-Malian coach joked.
Beyond the light-hearted comment, Chelle stressed that his team understands the mental strength required to prevail in such moments.
“Matches like this are often decided by small details,” he said. “You have to be calm, focused and ready for every situation, including penalties.”
Chelle also reiterated his respect for Morocco, describing the Atlas Lions as a “great team” packed with players capable of changing a game in an istant, including Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz.
However, he insisted Nigeria would not build their game plan around stopping one individual.
“Morocco are strong as a team,” Chelle added. “We must respond as a team.”
Despite the absence of suspended captain Wilfred Ndidi, the Super Eagles arrive in Rabat with confidence after winning all five of their matches at AFCON 2025. Chelle believes Nigeria’s blend of experience, belief and preparation leaves them ready for any outcome.
“To win against Morocco, you must be 100 per cent ready — physically and mentally,” he said. “If the match goes to penalties, we must also be ready for that.”
As Nigeria chase a place in the AFCON 2025 final, Chelle’s words underline a simple message: the Super Eagles are preparing for every scenario — including the ultimate test from the penalty spot.
