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Speaking at the post-match press conference, Nigeria coach Eric Chelle revealed he made seven half-time changes in the Super Eagles’ 2-2 draw with Poland because several players were struggling physically after already starting their post-season holidays.
Nigeria appeared destined for victory after the dependable Paul Onuachu calmly converted a 77th-minute penalty to restore the Super Eagles’ lead, following Kacper Potulski’s equaliser that had cancelled out Terem Moffi’s first-half opener, but Przemysław Wiśniewski’s stunning stoppage-time strike rescued a draw for the hosts.
Chelle made seven changes at half-time, introducing Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Paul Onuachu, Calvin Bassey, Raphael Onyedika, Rafiu Durosinmi and Philip Otele, while Emmanuel Fernandez, Bruno Onyemaechi, Terem Moffi, Igoh Ogbu, Frank Onyeka, Tochukwu Nnadi and Akor Adams were withdrawn.
Chelle admitted that the Super Eagles players were not in tiptop condition because many of the players had already concluded their club seasons.
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“They were already on vacation. That’s why I made seven changes at halftime. Our captain usually does a lot more on the pitch, but after 60 minutes, he was practically gone,” Chelle was quoted as saying by SportoweFakty.
Nigeria were not at full strength against the Poles, with key players Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina and Alex Iwobi not available for selection.
“The 2-2 scoreline reflects this match well. I don’t forget that the Poles could have scored at least two more goals against us in the second half, so this draw is valuable to us,” Chelle added.
Nigeria’s next friendly is on Wednesday, June 10 against World Cup-bound Portugal.
