‘My dream is to win with 80% possession and 5 goals’ - Eric Chelle lays down gauntlet for Mozambique tie

Fresh off being crowned the best manager of the AFCON 2025 group stage, Eric Chelle has made his most audacious declaration yet ahead of Nigeria's Round of 16 clash with Mozambique on Monday night.

The Franco-Malian tactician, whose Super Eagles are already the tournament's highest-scoring team, insists the world hasn't seen the "final form" of his side. 

Speaking to the media, Chelle laid down a gauntlet that certainly shocked the AFCON media centre: he wants to win with five goals and 80% possession.

"My dream is to win with 4 or 5 goals and have 80% possession, that is the perfection I dream of," Chelle stated. "But this is the AFCON. Mozambique is a great team, but they have a lot of things to improve on, just like us, and that's why we work hard during our training."

In an era where many African coaches favour pragmatic, counter-attacking football built on defensive solidity, Chelle is pushing a radically different vision. His approach centres on total control, overwhelming possession, and relentless attacking intent.

The numbers back up his ambition. Against Uganda in the group stage, Nigeria controlled 66% of the ball while creating chances at will. 

To reach the 80% threshold Chelle dreams of, he is expected to reinstate his "creative engine" featuring Alex Iwobi and new captain Wilfred Ndidi in the starting XI for Monday's encounter.

With Victor Osimhen leading the line and Ademola Lookman, the tournament's highest-rated player, providing creativity and goals, the five-goal target isn't mere rhetoric. 

Nigeria have already netted eight goals in three group stage matches, more than any other side in Morocco. Their attacking firepower has been a statement of intent from the opening whistle.

But while Chelle's confidence borders on the audacious, Mozambique will arrive at the Stade de Fès with their own belief. The Mambas have defied expectations to reach the knockout stages, built on defensive organization and dangerous counter-attacks.

They know Nigeria's quality. They also know that AFCON has a habit of humbling favourites. For Chelle, the challenge is clear: back up the bold words with a performance that leaves no doubt about Nigeria's credentials.