Former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye has called on head coach Eric Chelle to urgently address the team’s attacking woes as they prepare for a must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.
Nigeria beat Lesotho 2-1 in Polokwane, and Ideye highlighted the lack of chemistry in the team’s forward line — particularly the need to find the ideal strike partnership.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner pointed to the Lesotho match as evidence of ongoing
issues in the attacking department.
Despite securing three vital points, Nigeria struggled to break down a stubborn Lesotho defense for much of the game.
“Watching Tolu [Arokodare] in the first half and Akor [Adams] in the few minutes that he played, we are still looking for the right balance in the partnership between any of them and Osimhen,” Ideye said on SuperSport.
“Chelle needs to find the right combination up front. Victor is our main man, but he needs someone who can complement his style — someone who can link play, stretch defenses, or create space for him.”
The former forward praised the impact of Akor Adams, who replaced Tolu Arokodare in the second half against Lesotho.
Adams’ pace and movement led to a goal from Osimhen’s pass, offering a glimpse of a potential partnership.
However, Ideye stressed that Chelle must use the upcoming clash in Uyo to solidify his attacking strategy.
Also read: Super Eagles Arrive Safely in Uyo After Technical Delay Mid-Flight
The match against Benin — coached by former Super Eagles boss Gernot Rohr — is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s faltering World Cup qualification campaign.
Sitting third in Group C with 14 points after nine matches, Nigeria trail leaders Benin (17 points) and second-placed South Africa (15 points).
A victory is essential to keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 tournament, hosted in North America , alive.
