AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Eric Chelle hails Tolu Arokodare as ‘best striker in the world’ inside the box after Tanzania brace

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has described Tolu Arokodare as potentially the best striker in the world when attacking crosses inside the penalty area after the forward inspired Nigeria to a 3-1 victory over Tanzania.

The Ajax striker delivered a decisive second-half performance at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday, scoring twice to help Nigeria secure all three points in their latest encounter.

Arokodare was introduced at the start of the second half, replacing midfielder Alhassan Yusuf, as Chelle sought to add a different dimension to his team’s attack.

The substitution proved inspired, with the 25-year-old making an immediate impact through his physical presence, movement and ability to exploit deliveries into the penalty area.

His two goals also offered a timely response after a difficult spell with the national team, giving him an opportunity to strengthen his case for a more prominent role in Chelle’s plans.

Speaking after the game, the Nigerian coach explained that Arokodare’s introduction was part of a tactical adjustment designed to exploit his specific strengths rather than simply increase the team’s attacking numbers.

Chelle acknowledged that although the forward possesses the physical attributes to lead the press, his height can sometimes make sustained high-intensity pressing difficult.

“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 reveals tactical plan that unleashed Arokodare

The Malian tactician further explained that Nigeria changed their attacking approach after the interval to get the best out of the striker.

Rather than relying heavily on intricate combinations through the middle, the Super Eagles adopted a more direct approach, using the flanks to create opportunities for crosses into the box.

The adjustment allowed Arokodare to utilise his physical strength, aerial ability and positioning against the Tanzanian defence.

Chelle believes those qualities make the forward particularly dangerous when his teammates can deliver quality balls into the penalty area.

“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 tactical switch paid dividends as Arokodare punished Tanzania with two second-half goals, underlining the value of having a striker capable of offering a different attacking threat.

His performance also demonstrated the importance of tactical flexibility in Nigeria’s pursuit of success, with Chelle showing his willingness to adjust his formation and personnel to maximise the strengths of his available players.

Eric Chelle makes huge Arokodare declaration

Chelle was particularly impressed by the striker’s ability to attack deliveries inside the penalty area, suggesting that few forwards can match his effectiveness in such situations.

The Super Eagles manager went as far as describing Arokodare as potentially the best striker in the world when the ball is delivered into the box.

The endorsement represents a significant confidence boost for the forward, who will be keen to maintain his impressive form and establish himself as an important figure in Nigeria’s attack.

“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 now turn his attention to Nigeria’s return fixture against Tanzania, where he will have another opportunity to build on his impressive display.

With two goals already to his name, the Ajax forward has given Chelle another attacking option to consider as the Super Eagles pursue their qualification ambitions.