Nigeria: Top 4 decisions Eric Chelle got spot-on in Super Eagles win over Iran

Nigeria’s Super Eagles carved out a decent 2-1 win over Iran on Friday, March 27, in the first of two friendlies scheduled for Antalya, Turkey, Afrik-Foot reports.

It was the Super Eagles’ first match since coach Eric Chelle guided the team to a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The match was played at a high tempo, with Nigeria showing both attacking intent and defensive discipline. Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams ensured the Super Eagles stayed in control for long periods, even though Iran pulled one back through Mehdi Taremi in the second half.

What stood out most was not just the result, but how Nigeria achieved it. Chelle made bold and calculated decisions before and during the match. Some of them raised eyebrows at first, but by the final whistle, they had all played a key role in the victory.

This report breaks down four of the most important calls made by the coach, and why each one worked.

Resting Victor Osimhen

Leaving out Victor Osimhen is never an easy decision. The Galatasaray striker is Nigeria’s main goal threat and arguably the Super Eagles’ biggest star. But Chelle chose to rest him even before he suffered the arm injury against Liverpool that needed surgery.

The impact was immediate. Without their usual focal point, Nigeria had to find other ways to attack. Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon and Akor Adams stepped up, sharing the responsibility and stretching Iran’s defence with pace and movement.

This decision showed that Nigeria are not a one-man team. It also helped build confidence among the attacking players, proving they can deliver even without their biggest star.

Dropping Stanley Nwabali

Chelle’s decision to leave out Stanley Nwabali, who is currently without a club after leaving Chippa United, sent a strong message.

Selection, the coach showed, is based on match fitness and regular playing time, not past performances. It also opened the door for changes in the goalkeeping department.

The result was a more competitive environment. Other goalkeepers were given the chance to prove themselves, and the team benefited from that fresh energy.

Bringing Back Maduka Okoye

Maduka Okoye returned to the starting line-up after 294 days away. It was a big call, especially in such a high-profile match.

Despite conceding to Mehdi Taremi, Okoye delivered a steady performance. He showed calmness under pressure and helped organise the defence, which included new faces.

His return added experience to a changing backline and reminded everyone why he had been Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper in the past. Chelle’s faith in him paid off.

Rebuilding the Super Eagles defence with new faces

One of Chelle’s boldest decisions was to reshape the defence. Igoh Ogbu was handed a rare start, while Semi Ajayi returned, and other players like Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu were introduced.

This new-look defence had never played together before, yet they showed strong understanding. They dealt well with Iran’s attacks for most of the game and stayed organised under pressure.

Even after conceding in the 67th minute, the defensive unit remained composed. The debutants, in particular, looked comfortable at this level.

This decision was important for the future. It expanded Nigeria’s player pool and showed that Chelle is willing to reward players who are in good form.

More seasoned calls will be expected of the coach as Nigeria prepare to face Jordan on Tuesday in their last match if this international window.