Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has called for improvements despite Nigeria’s 2–1 win over Tanzania in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday night.

Chelle lamented his side’s missed chances after dominating the early stages of the game but failing to find the breakthrough they desired.

In the 32nd minute, Victor Osimhen latched onto a pass from Alex Iwobi and poked the ball goalwards, but a Tanzanian defender cleared off the line with goalkeeper Zuberi Masudi beaten.

The coach said Nigeria created several chances, particularly in the first half, but admitted that mistakes in the second period allowed Tanzania back into the contest.

He noted that while the opening win was encouraging, the team must show greater discipline and control as the tournament progresses.

“At this level, small details decide games. We played well, but we must reduce our mistakes, especially against stronger opponents,” Chelle said.

According to him, the encounter offered valuable lessons for the technical crew ahead of tougher group fixtures.

“AFCON is about consistency. We will analyse this game carefully and make the necessary corrections before the next match,” he added.

Chelle expressed satisfaction with securing all three points but stressed that steady improvement remains the priority in a long AFCON campaign.

“We are satisfied with the three points. That is the most important. For now, I want to focus on the positives. The second part of the game clearly shows there is still work to be done, especially in killing the game. We are aware of this, and we will work on it,” he said.