Eric Chelle exposes real reason Super Eagles star refused to take penalty during AFCON 2025 loss to Morocco

Nigeria’s painful AFCON 2025 exit to Morocco sparked plenty of debate, especially around Victor Osimhen’s absence from the penalty shootout.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has now explained what really happened, clearing the air on a decision that left fans stunned.

The Super Eagles were eliminated after losing 4–2 on penalties to Morocco following a tense semifinal that went all the way to extra time. One of the biggest talking points came just before the shootout, when Osimhen was withdrawn in the closing moments and replaced by Paul Onuachu.

That substitution meant Nigeria’s most prolific attacker was unavailable for penalties. Onuachu went on to score Nigeria’s first kick, but misses from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyeamachi proved decisive as Morocco booked their place in the final.

With questions swirling about why Osimhen wasn’t trusted to step up, Chelle revealed the decision wasn’t tactical or disciplinary. Instead, it came directly from the player himself.

Speaking on RMC Sport’s After Foot, Chelle explained that Nigeria approach penalties with detailed preparation.

“We take the penalty kicks at every training session. I have stats showing who shoots best, who shoots worst,” the Super Eagles boss said.

However, Osimhen’s situation was different. According to Chelle, the striker approached him moments before the shootout with a clear message.

“Regarding Victor's case, before the penalty shootout, he came to me and said, ‘Coach my ankle is really bad, it hurts, I can't take a penalty kick.’”

The admission sheds new light on the episode, explaining why the Galatasaray striker opted out despite his reputation as Nigeria’s go-to man in big moments.

While the defeat remains a bitter pill, Chelle’s comments suggest Osimhen put the team first, choosing honesty over risking a costly miss while playing through pain.