Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle is considering a defensive approach against hosts Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, citing squad fatigue.
The Super Eagles, who have scored 14 goals, will face a Morocco team that hasn’t conceded a goal from open play.
Chelle plans to let Morocco have the ball and wait for them, exploiting their struggles against a low block. “We will try to hold on in the first half and then play our game in the second half,” he said.
Morocco, led by Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, has impressed with wins over Tanzania and Cameroon. Diaz has scored five goals in five consecutive games, making him a key player to watch.
Nigeria will miss captain Wilfred Ndidi due to suspension but will rely on striker Victor Osimhen and winger Ademola Lookman. Osimhen has scored four goals, while Lookman has provided four assists.
Chelle acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying Morocco doesn’t play like Algeria, and coach Walid Regragui is a different opponent. “I will have to work, and my group too, to beat this team tomorrow,” he said..
Morocco is aiming to win their first AFCON title since 1976, and Regragui is under pressure to deliver. Nigeria, on the other hand, is seeking redemption after missing out on World Cup qualification.
