Former Super Eagles winger Tijani Babangida has credited head coach Eric Chelle’s tactical system as the main reason Nigeria’s players performed strongly at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Speaking on the Global Football Insights podcast alongside Sunday Oliseh, Babangida explained that Chelle introduced a tactical structure that allowed attackers to play with more freedom, particularly Ademola Lookman, who was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the tournament.
Lookman finished AFCON 2025 as one of the most influential players, contributing directly to seven goals during the competition and scoring in three consecutive matches.
Babangida said the coach’s system reminded him of the structure used during his own time with the national team.
“Watching our games at AFCON 2025, Chelle introduced a system similar to our traditional setup.”
He explained that the tactical tweak effectively removed the rigid left-wing role and allowed Lookman to move freely across the attacking line.
“He effectively removed the number 11 position and gave Lookman a free hand, like Amokachi, to move around.”
The former Ajax winger added that the flexible attacking structure created more space and involvement for midfielders and forwards.
“You might have a number 7, but the number 11 spot is fluid. Lookman can run into that space, a striker can run there, and it creates more chances for effective attacks.”
According to Babangida, the tactical approach was the real reason behind the team’s impressive displays in Morocco.
“It was a very good system, the same one we used to play. You could see that Nigerians were pleasantly surprised and wondered why the Super Eagles were playing so well.”
He concluded by saying the system suited the players perfectly and hopes the national team continues with it.
“It’s because of that system, and it worked perfectly with the players. I hope we can maintain that atmosphere.”
Nigeria eventually finished third at AFCON 2025, with several players, including Lookman, earning praise for their performances during the tournament.
