Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has urged his team to focus on securing second place in their qualification campaign rather than relying on speculation about South Africa being docked points.
The Super Eagles faced a crucial must-win clash against Zimbabwe but were held to a 1-1 draw at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday, significantly diminishing their chances of securing first place and automatic qualification to next year's FIFA World Cup.
However, Chelle praised his players' efforts and remained optimistic about their chances, stressing the importance of their upcoming matches against Rwanda and South Africa.
Eric Chelle stresses Super Eagles' focus amid South Africa speculation
Speaking in his post-match press conference after the Super Eagles' draw with Zimbabwe, Chelle addressed speculation that South Africa could be docked three points for fielding Teboho Mokoena in their game against Lesotho despite his ineligibility.
“I don't want to tell you about that. I said yesterday we are focused on our game, so this is why I talked to my guys after the game. I told them to look forward to second place. They did a great job during the ten days, so they deserve this qualification,” he said.
“I am trusting them and maybe if South Africa loses three points, the next game is against Rwanda so we can pass this team and after that we have a game against South Africa. If it is true, we will see what happens in the coming days.”
Meanwhile, the Lesotho Football Association (LFA) have officially confirmed that they have lodged a formal complaint with CAF and FIFA, challenging South Africa’s decision to field Mokoena in last Friday’s qualifier.
Reflecting on the Super Eagles' frustrating draw against Zimbabwe, the Malian trainer lamented his team’s inability to capitalise on their first-half dominance.
“What can I say about the first half? Normally, we could have scored ten goals in the first half. In the second half, when we scored the goal, we thought maybe it is finished.
“It’s tough, it's hard because my players and my team were the better team on the pitch.”
