Chelle admits Super Eagles were ‘lucky’ as VAR spared Nigeria in AFCON win over Algeria

One month after Nigeria’s quarter-final victory over Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revisited one of the game’s most debated moments, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Malian tactician has highlighted one VAR decision that could have dramatically altered the contest.

The two sides arrived at the knockout clash in Morocco with unbeaten records, setting up what was expected to be a tight and tactical battle.

Instead, Nigeria delivered one of their most commanding displays of the tournament, securing a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams.

Despite the final scoreline, the match hinged on a key early incident when Algeria appealed for a penalty while the game was still goalless. A dangerous cross from the right struck defender Semi Ajayi in the arm inside the box, prompting an immediate VAR check.

After review, officials ruled that the ball had first rebounded off Ajayi’s thigh before making contact with his hand, and the penalty appeal was dismissed.

It was a decision that sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts, and one Chelle now admits could easily have gone the other way.

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Chelle reflects on turning point for Super Eagles

Speaking to RMC Sports, the Nigerian coach addressed the controversial moment with refreshing honesty.

“They could have called the handball. We were lucky on that one,” he admits, lucidly recalling a moment that could have changed the course of the match.

Chelle went further, stressing how crucial such moments become in high-stakes knockout football.

“At this stage, if Algeria scores and takes a 1-0 lead, the game is no longer the same. They take control of the ball and gain momentum,” he noted.

The victory over Algeria propelled the Super Eagles into the semi-finals, their fifth consecutive win of the tournament. But their winning run eventually stalled against hosts Morocco, who edged them out on penalties following a goalless draw after extra time.

Nigeria, however, finished the campaign strongly, defeating Egypt in the third-place playoff on penalties to secure the bronze medal and cap off an impressive AFCON showing.