Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that the Super Eagles struggled in the second half of their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ghana in the semi-final of the 2025 Unity Cup at the Gtech Community Stadium in London before they were exhausted from the fast paced first half.

The Super Eagles began the game with perennial rivals, the Black Stars like house on fire and dominated the first half, racing to a 2-0 lead courtesy of a smart finish from Cyriel Dessers — his third international goal — and an own goal by Ghana’s Razak Simpson off Semi Ajayi’s beautiful header.

However, the tide shifted dramatically in the second half. The Black Stars came out rejuvenated, pressing higher and creating more chances, while Nigeria appeared to lose energy and struggled to maintain their earlier intensity.

Chelle, who took charge of the Super Eagles earlier this year, believes fatigue played a major role in the drop-off.

According to the Franco-Malian coach, his team’s aggressive pressing game in the first half took a toll on the players physically.

Chelle, who took charge of the Super Eagles earlier this year, believes fatigue played a major role in the drop-off.

According to the Franco-Malian coach, his team’s aggressive pressing game in the first half took a toll on the players physically.

The scenario bore similarities to Nigeria’s disappointing draw against Zimbabwe during their last World Cup qualifier in Uyo, where they faded late in the game after taking the lead.

Chelle is confident that with more time and consistent training sessions, his players will adapt better to his style and become more resilient in the latter stages of matches.

“Since I’ve been the coach of this team, I’ve had maybe seven or eight training sessions. We have played three games — two wins and one draw. We need to improve. We need to work. The players need to know what I want,” he said.

“I think we made a great first half and in the second half we were tired. My guys, I’m so proud of them because they fight. It was difficult, but I see that they deserve — we deserve — the victory.”

Nigeria’s win over their eternal rivals sees them advance to the final of the 2025 Unity Cup, where they will face Jamaica. The Reggae Boyz booked their spot with a thrilling 3-2 win over Trinidad and Tobago in the other semi-final.

The final promises to be a fitting climax to the friendly tournament in London, with Chelle’s young side looking to crown their progress with silverware.