Eric Chelle explains why Troost-Ekong was not used in the penalty shootout loss to DR Congo

Super Eagles coach has revealed why he didn’t use the captain during the penalty shootout against DR Congo

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has responded to criticism over his decision not to introduce defender William Troost-Ekong during the team’s penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Fans and analysts questioned why the experienced centre-back, widely regarded as one of the team’s most reliable penalty takers, remained on the bench as the tense knockout clash headed for spot-kicks.

Instead of calling on Troost-Ekong, Chelle brought on defender Chidozie Awaziem in the final ten minutes of extra time, a move that left many puzzled after the loss.

What Chelle said

Speaking to reporters after the match, Chelle defended his tactical decision and expressed his desire to move past the disappointment.

He said, "It was a choice because I felt that we were in danger during the last ten minutes, and that is why we put another defender on,"

He added, "We did a penalty session yesterday, but it was a choice. If we come back an hour later, it might not be the same."

The coach admitted that such decisions are always heavily scrutinised after a poor result.

“It is easy now to say maybe the best choice was the captain," he noted.

"It was a choice, and the reality is we lost. I have to be focused on the next competition."