AFCON 2025: ‘I don't know the rules’ - Chelle in confused state following late penalty given to Tunisia

The decisive moment came late in the second half when referee Boubou Traoré, after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, penalised Bright Osayi-Samuel for a handball inside the box. 

The decision resulted in a spot-kick for Tunisia, which they converted, giving them a chance in the game.

However, Super Eagles went on to hold on to their one-goal advantage, winning the game 3-2 to secure a round of 16 qualification.

In his post-match comments, Chelle confessed his uncertainty about the ruling and the current interpretation of the handball law.

"I don't know, I didn't see the penalty and the video, but the reality is I don't know the rules," he stated.

The Nigerian manager highlighted what he perceives as inconsistencies in handball officiating, particularly in situations where the ball deflects off another body part before hitting the hand or arm.

"Because sometimes there is a hand, they told us that if the ball touches the body before the hand, there's no hand or something," Chelle explained.

Despite his reservations about the call, Chelle chose not to fixate on the referee's decision, instead pointing to the success of his in-game tactical adjustments.

"I don't know the rules. Like your friend said, my substitute brought the goal, you have your vision," he remarked, shifting focus to the positives.

Chelle concluded by emphasising the need for his team to improve, especially when defending set-pieces.

"If you want, you can speak to me one day and I will explain my vision. For me, this is a fact of the game, and once again, we have to improve from set-pieces."

Nigeria must avoid defeat in their final group game against Uganda to guarantee finishing as group winners and potentially secure a more favourable path in the next round.