AFCON 2025: Eric Chelle Explains Osimhen Substitution, Oliseh Applauds Onyeamachi

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has clarified the decision to withdraw Victor Osimhen before Nigeria’s dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Morocco in the semi-final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Naija News reports that the Super Eagles bowed out after a goalless 120 minutes, losing 4-2 on penalties to the Atlas Lions, a result that sparked debate following Osimhen’s substitution shortly before spot-kicks.

Addressing reporters after the match, Chelle revealed the change was enforced by a knock picked up by the striker.

“Victor had a small injury to his ankle and that’s why we brought in Paul, who statistically was one of the best shooters of this period,” Chelle explained.

Osimhen, who plays his club football with Galatasaray, had already netted four goals in the tournament but was unable to add to his tally against Morocco. His withdrawal saw Paul Onuachu introduced, a move that raised eyebrows among fans.

However, the Southampton forward justified the coach’s faith by calmly converting his penalty, one of only two successful efforts for Nigeria in the shootout.

Away from the penalty drama, former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh singled out left-back Bruno Onyeamachi for praise following an impressive defensive display.

Onyeamachi was tasked with keeping tabs on Morocco’s most dangerous attacker, Brahim Diaz, who came into the match as the tournament’s leading scorer with five goals and was chasing a record of scoring in six consecutive AFCON games.

The Nigerian defender, who turns out for Olympiacos, rose to the challenge, limiting the influence of the Real Madrid winger before Diaz was eventually replaced by Ilias Akhomach in extra time.

Reacting during the broadcast on SuperSport, Oliseh was full of admiration for Onyeamachi’s effort.

“Bruno is putting in a lot of effort to keep Brahim Diaz quiet. Looks like this is the first time someone has beaten Diaz,” Oliseh said.

Despite Onyeamachi’s standout performance, the night ended in disappointment for Nigeria. The 26-year-old defender missed his spot-kick in the shootout, a moment that ultimately led to Morocco’s victory.