AFCON semis: Chelle weighs tactical tweak as Ghanaian referee gets Nigeria–Morocco tie

 

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has hinted at a possible tactical switch ahead of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against hosts Morocco in Rabat on Wednesday.

Nigeria face a Moroccan side yet to concede from open play at the tournament, with a place in the final at stake. While the Super Eagles have been among the most potent teams so far—scoring 14 goals through Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams—Chelle says fatigue within his squad may necessitate a more cautious approach.

“I feel my players are tired, so we may have to change our approach,” Chelle said. “We could allow Morocco to have possession and wait for our moments. They struggle against a low block, so we may start that way—contain them in the first half and play our game in the second.”

Chelle has already guided Nigeria past two North African opponents—Tunisia and Algeria—but insisted Morocco present a different challenge.

“Algeria and Morocco are good teams with quality players, but they play differently,” he said. “Walid Regragui is not Vladimir Petkovic. My players and I must work hard to beat Morocco.”

Midfielder Alex Iwobi also underlined the team’s unity ahead of the encounter, describing a strong bond both on and off the pitch.

“Everyone is hitting their prime and performing well at their clubs,” Iwobi said. “You can see the chemistry when we play for Nigeria. There’s real unity—it’s a family, and it starts from the coach.”

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Laryea to take charge of the semi-final. He will be assisted by Zakhele Siwela of South Africa and Lesotho’s Souru Phatsoane. Arsénio Maringule of Mozambique will serve as third assistant referee, while Rwanda’s Samuel Uwikunda is the fourth official.

The VAR team comprises Tom Abongile (South Africa), Haythem Guirat (Tunisia) and Stephen Yiembe (Kenya), with Lydia Abebe named referee assessor.