‘I'm not impressed’ - AFCON-winning manager claims Osimhen, Lookman and Chukwueze’s pairing is overrated

Former AFCON-winning manager Claude Le Roy has cast doubt on the effectiveness of Nigeria's national team, suggesting the Super Eagles' attack may be overrated.

The Super Eagles attack scored 20 goals across 12 World Cup qualifying matches, but still failed to make the qualification.

Nigeria's attack has been a subject of intense discussion, with many of its forwards ranked among the best on the continent. 

However, the inability to translate their goal-scoring record into a World Cup ticket has increased the pressure on the team as AFCON approaches.

Le Roy not scared of Super Eagles attack

French coach Le Roy has argued that statistics alone are not a true measure of offensive strength, especially with the Africa Cup of Nations on the horizon.

In an interview with Canal+, Le Roy expressed his scepticism. "When you are Nigeria and you don't qualify for the World Cup, I'm not impressed by the statistics of 20 goals in 12 matches, given the offensive potential they have," he stated.

The experienced tactician believes the goal count should not be a source of celebration, pointing to the level of competition Nigeria faced during their qualifying campaign. 

Le Roy noted that many of the goals were scored against teams he considers far from Africa's elite.

"We need to put things into perspective," he remarked. "It's not against irresistible teams, but against Benin and Gabon."

The 77-year-old also warned that the disappointment of missing out on the global tournament will complicate preparations for head coach Éric Chelle ahead of the upcoming AFCON.

"The elimination greatly handicaps him (Chelle) in his preparation for this AFCON," Le Roy added.

Chelle now faces the task of refining the team's attacking strategy and rebuilding confidence before the tournament kicks off.