'I have two things in mind' - Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle reveals tactics for Tunisia

Eric Chelle has broken his silence on the Super Eagles' game plan for Saturday's crunch Group C encounter with Tunisia, confirming he has two distinct tactical approaches prepared for the showdown in Fez. 

But true to his nature, the Malian tactician is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding which strategy will get the green light.

Speaking ahead of the blockbuster fixture, Chelle offered a rare glimpse into his thought process while maintaining an air of mystery that will no doubt keep Tunisian analysts guessing right up until kick-off.

"I have two things in mind," Chelle revealed in a post shared on X, formerly Twitter. "To give the ball to Tunisia or continue my philosophy, but I can't tell you which I will go with because Tunisia are a great team."

It is the kind of calculated ambiguity that suggests meticulous preparation rather than indecision. The first option, ceding possession, would represent a pragmatic shift, inviting Tunisia to commit numbers forward before exploiting space on the counter with the pace of Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen. 

The second plan, sticking to his attacking principles, would see Nigeria impose themselves from the outset, dictating tempo and territory.

What will encourage Super Eagles supporters is the clarity and conviction in Chelle's tone. There is no sense of panic or overthinking; instead, the 47-year-old appears calm, methodical, and supremely confident in his squad's ability to deliver when it matters most.

His acknowledgment of Tunisia's quality is a nod to respect rather than fear. The Carthage Eagles boast defensive discipline and attacking flair in equal measure, particularly through the in-form Elias Achouri. 

But Chelle's willingness to adapt, whether that means sitting deep or pressing high, demonstrates tactical flexibility that could prove vital in such a high-stakes encounter.

Preparation is one thing; performance is another. Chelle has done the homework, studied the opposition, and devised his plans. 

Now comes the acid test: can his players execute under pressure with a Round of 16 berth potentially on the line? Saturday evening in Fez will provide all the answers.