Eric Chelle admits what went wrong after Super Eagles crash out of AFCON

The closely fought contest finished 0-0 after regulation time and extra-time, with the hosts holding their nerve in the shootout to secure a 4–2 victory and book their place in the final.

Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou proved decisive, saving two penalties, while Stanley Nwabali managed one save for Nigeria. Over the course of the match, the Atlas Lions created the clearer chances, with the Super Eagles limited to just two attempts.

In his post-match reaction, Chelle admitted his side struggled to execute key aspects of their game plan.

"We lacked intensity in some moments, tactically and in our movement," the Nigeria coach told the media after the game.

"Morocco deserve to go through, even though our mentality was good. The players fought for every ball and gave everything, but it was a difficult match for us."

The defeat marked yet another penalty shootout setback for the Super Eagles, something Chelle described as particularly painful given the work put in during the tournament.

"It's hard to accept because we lost on penalties again," he added.

"We worked a lot in training, but this is football and sometimes you have to accept the result."

Chelle also highlighted the tactical demands of his chosen system, pointing to a drop in pressing intensity as a key factor.

"We used a 4-4-2 diamond, and that system requires high pressing," he explained.

"We started well in the first 15 minutes, but after that we were always one or two metres late. When that happens, especially against a team like Morocco, it becomes very difficult."