Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle challenged Unity Cup hero Femi Azeez to improve tactically despite his match-winning brace against Zimbabwe.
READ ALSO: Elijah Ogungbile ‘Lewandowski’: A Rare Killer Instinct, A Sharper Striker Destined for the Top
Chelle praised Azeez for his impressive debut performance in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe at the Unity Cup in London but admitted he was not fully satisfied with the winger’s overall display.
The Millwall forward scored twice on his debut to inspire the Super Eagles to victory at The Valley, opening the scoring with a powerful low strike before adding a second-half finish from Terem Moffi’s assist.
Despite the goals, Chelle insisted the 24-year-old still has areas to improve, especially in following tactical instructions and retaining possession.
“You can ask Azeez directly. The first objective was for him to run today; this is what I asked of them,” Chelle said.
“The second instruction was to press high, but during the 90 minutes, they did not.”
The Franco-Malian coach admitted Azeez deserved praise for scoring twice but criticised aspects of his technical play.
“I know he scored two goals, so congratulations to him,” Chelle added.
“But he lost possession far too often technically, so I’m not happy. He won the ball back at times, but other times he didn’t, so I’m not happy. But for his debut, I can say congratulations to him.”
When asked if Azeez had done enough to secure a place in Nigeria’s squad for upcoming friendlies against Poland and Portugal, Chelle refused to give a direct answer.
“If I want him for the games against Portugal and Poland, I’ll say yes. But if I don’t want him, I’ll say no,” he stated.
Azeez was one of eight players handed debuts during the encounter, as Chelle continued his squad rebuilding process ahead of future international competitions.
Nigeria will now face the winner of the second Unity Cup semi-final between India and Jamaica in the tournament final.
