Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle expressed satisfaction with his team’s display in the international friendly against Poland.
Nigeria were held to a 2-2 draw by Jan Urban’s side at the PGE Narodowy Stadium in Warsaw on Wednesday night.
Poland made a lively start to the game but found themselves behind in the 23rd minute when Terem Moffi finished from close range to put the Super Eagles ahead.
The hosts responded well and drew level just before the interval, with Kacper Potulski finding the back of the net to send both teams into the break tied at 1-1.
Nigeria restored their lead 14 minutes from time after Paul Onuachu calmly converted a penalty.
Yet Poland refused to give in, and their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Przemyslaw Wiśniewski struck a stunning equaliser to secure a deserved share of the spoils for the Red and Whites.
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Chelle Thumbs Up Draw With Poland
Chelle reckoned the outcome reflected the competitive nature of the entertaining encounter.
“The 2-2 scoreline reflects this match well. I don’t forget that the Poles could have scored at least two more goals against us in the second half, so this draw is valuable to us,” Chelle to a press conference.
On Fitness Concern
Chelle openly acknowledged that several of his players were struggling with match fitness. This was largely because many had already wrapped up their club seasons and were no longer in regular competitive action.
“They were already on vacation. That’s why I made seven changes at halftime. Our captain usually does a lot more on the pitch, but after 60 minutes, he was practically gone, ” admitted Chelle.
Ready For Portugal
The Malian is already planning to adopt the same approach for his side’s next friendly against Portugal.
“The approach will be similar because, as I mentioned, my players are out of shape. Why do we need these two matches in the middle of the summer holidays,” Chelle said.
By Adeboye Amosu
