AFCON 2025: ‘Your diamond in midfield is working now’ - Troost-Ekong praises Eric Chelle

Nigeria’s former captain and defensive pillar, William Troost-Ekong, has officially validated the coaching genius of Eric Chelle, praising the "diamond in midfield" that has transformed the Super Eagles into the most feared team at AFCON 2025.

In an emotional video message sent to the squad from Saudi Arabia just hours before their semi-final against Morocco, Troost-Ekong didn't just offer motivation; he offered a technical breakdown of why Nigeria is currently "unplayable."

“Coach, I have to say your diamond in midfield and the rotation is working now. I can’t wait to watch the game later,” Troost-Ekong said in the clip, which has since gone viral among Nigerian supporters.

Troost-Ekong’s specific praise for Chelle’s tactical setup reveals the technical mastery behind Nigeria’s record-breaking run.

For a decade, the Super Eagles often relied on individual brilliance, but under Chelle, they have found systematic tactical excellence.

• The Setup: Chelle’s 4-4-2 diamond (or 4-3-1-2) utilises a disciplined anchor (usually Wilfred Ndidi), two hard-working "shuttlers" in Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka, and Ademola Lookman at the tip.

• The Result: This structure has unlocked the Super Eagles' true potential, providing a solid defensive base while giving Victor Osimhen, Lookman and Akor Adam the freedom to devastate defences.

• The Stats: The system, which has led Nigeria to join an elite team in AFCON history, has delivered 14 goals in 5 matches, the highest in the tournament, and more "big chances created" (26) than any other nation in Morocco.

When a captain of Troost-Ekong’s stature, a man who has played under legendary coaches and led Nigeria to multiple AFCON podiums, publicly credits a coach's tactical innovation mid-tournament, it sends the strongest possible signal: Nigeria has finally found the perfect marriage of talent and system.

Troost-Ekong’s observation that the "rotation is working" also highlights Chelle’s management of the squad. Whether it is bringing on Raphael Onyedika to close out games or integrating Akor Adams into the frontline, every move in the diamond feels intentional rather than desperate.

While Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare to trade tackles with the Atlas Lions tonight in Rabat, the diamond faces its ultimate pressure test.

With Wilfred Ndidi suspended, the system’s resilience will be under the spotlight, but with Troost-Ekong’s ultimate validation ringing in their ears, the Eagles enter the pitch knowing their success is built on a foundation of technical brilliance.

As the former skipper put it: the system is working, the players are marvelling at its effectiveness, and the trophy is now just two steps away.