Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has praised Tolu Arokodare for his strength inside the penalty area after the striker scored twice in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in an international fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday.
Arokodare came off the bench at half-time to deliver a match-winning performance, finding the net twice in the second half to help the Nigerian side secure all three points.
The Ajax striker replaced midfielder Alhassan Yusuf at the beginning of the second half, with Chelle explaining that his decision was influenced by the forward’s physical attributes and ability to trouble opposing defenders.
The Malian tactician noted that although Arokodare possesses the ability to run and press opponents, his height could sometimes make it difficult for him to sustain a high-pressing approach.
“But you know, it depends on the profile of the player. If you want to play high pressure, you need to have some people who can run a lot,” Chelle explained.
“You know Tolu can run but he is very tall, so to make a high pressure, sometimes he can do it but sometimes it can be difficult for him.”
Chelle further disclosed that the Super Eagles switched to a more direct style of play in the second half, with the team exploiting the flanks to create crossing opportunities for Arokodare.
“After that when we play 4-4-2 flat, our game is more direct. Like we did in the second half, our game was more direct,” he revealed.
“We pass by the side to make a one-on-one to have a cross and Tolu his strength is in the box.”
The Super Eagles coach was particularly impressed with Arokodare’s ability to attack deliveries into the penalty area, suggesting that the striker could be the best in the world in such situations.
“When you put the ball inside the box, maybe actually he is the best striker. He did well and I am happy for him but once again we have a second game,” Chelle concluded.
Arokodare will have another opportunity to impress when Nigeria face Tanzania in the return fixture in the coming days, with Chelle expecting his team to build on their opening victory.
