NGA 0:3 GUI: Worst Decision Made By Super Eagles Coach That Cost Nigeria In Today’s Match

According to a report by Flashscore on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, the Super Eagles suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match in Bissau. Nigeria went into the game with three points from their opening victory over Madagascar, but a disappointing performance saw them leave Bissau without a point.

One of the major decisions that came under scrutiny was Eric Chelle’s starting lineup. The coach opted for Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman in attack, while players such as George Ilenikhena and Samuel Chukwueze were left among the substitutes. Ilenikhena had scored on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar, while Chukwueze had provided width and dangerous deliveries during that match.

The decision to leave those players out affected Nigeria’s attacking structure, as the Super Eagles struggled to create clear opportunities and lacked the intensity needed to trouble Guinea-Bissau.

Chelle’s decision to keep Ademola Lookman on the pitch after the restart was another major talking point. Lookman had struggled to make an impact in the first half and appeared sluggish after the interval. He also failed to react quickly enough on some occasions when Nigeria lost possession, allowing Guinea-Bissau to regain control.

The coach eventually replaced Lookman with Tolu Arokodare in the 68th minute, but Guinea-Bissau had already scored their second goal two minutes earlier through Mama Baldé.

Chelle had made changes immediately after half-time, bringing Moses Usor on for Frank Onyeka and Moses Simon on for Awoniyi. However, those changes did not immediately transform Nigeria’s performance.

The overall setup was another issue. Nigeria struggled to control the midfield, while the attacking players were often isolated. Guinea-Bissau were able to exploit spaces and play with greater confidence, eventually turning their advantage into a convincing 3-0 victory.

The defeat is a major setback for the Super Eagles in Group L. Nigeria had started the campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar, while Guinea-Bissau had also won their opening fixture against Tanzania. With Tanzania already guaranteed a place as co-hosts, only one qualification place is available to the remaining teams in the group.

For Chelle and the Super Eagles, the result highlights the need for significant improvement before their next AFCON qualifying fixture.

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