Former Nigerian international, Henry Makinwa, has praised the Super Eagles for displaying cohesion and a clear footballing identity under head coach Eric Chelle at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Makinwa made the remarks following Nigeria’s 3-1 triumph over Uganda in their final Group C encounter on Tuesday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
In an interview with Footy Africa, Makinwa highlighted his admiration for the team’s smooth transitions from defence to attack.
He also recommended that the technical staff implement a man-marking strategy, particularly during set-piece situations.
“There’s no cause for alarm yet. What the team needs to reinforce is character: play with the flair of a Spanish side and win with the character of an Italian team,” he said.
“The overall performance was impressive. It was the first time in recent years that felt purposeful. The team played as a unit and showed a clear identity, with excellent transitions from attack to defence.”
Makinwa also singled out Chidozie Ajayi as a key figure for the defensive line. “I expect Ajayi to take charge of the defensive line. On set pieces delivered across the goal line, the team should adopt man-marking, with one or two free players assigned to attack the cross. That didn’t happen.
“Coaches can’t see everything from the touchline, so I would delegate a commanding player in those situations. He should organise the defensive line—same height, same energy, and the right attitude. Ajayi should be the ‘defence minister.’”
