Nigeria’s head coach, Jose Peseiro, shed light on his strategic choice of keeping Kelechi Iheanacho on the bench during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Round of 16 showdown against Cameroon. Despite Iheanacho’s spectator role, Nigeria secured a 2-0 victory over Cameroon, propelled by Ademola Lookman’s brace.

In a post-match interview, Peseiro clarified his decision, emphasizing the need to safeguard the lead against Cameroon’s formidable squad.

“I explained yesterday. I know the value, quality and capacity of Kelechi,” Peseiro asserted. “I don’t like to speak about individual situations because other players didn’t play also.”

Peseiro elaborated on Iheanacho’s circumstances, highlighting the lack of collective practice due to his late arrival after recuperating with his club, Leicester City.

“Kelechi arrived here without one collective practice. Thanks to Leicester [City] for his recovery, we brought him here but without collective training,” Peseiro stated. “If we needed to score today, it is possible he would have entered but they didn’t need to score. I need to protect my goal; why put Kelechi if I am fighting to win the match?”

Iheanacho, a key figure for Leicester City, is yet to make an appearance for Nigeria in the AFCON tournament. As Nigeria prepares to face Angola in the upcoming fixture, the former Manchester City star aims to contribute on the pitch after being sidelined in previous encounters.

Peseiro’s rationale showcases the intricate tactical calculus involved in elite football contests, underscoring the balance between individual prowess and cohesive team dynamics. As the AFCON narrative unfolds, all eyes will be on Iheanacho and Nigeria’s quest for continental glory.