Super Eagles head coach, Mr. Eric Chelle, and midfielder, Mr. Alex Iwobi, have expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome a demanding travel schedule ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final clash with Morocco.

The three-time African champions, who last lifted the trophy in 2013, will face the hosts on Wednesday, with a place in the AFCON final at stake.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Super Eagles endured multiple trips between Fès and Marrakech during the quarter-final stage, before travelling again to Rabat for the semi-final encounter.

Nigeria topped Group C but were forced to switch venues repeatedly, unlike Morocco, who finished first in Group A and have played all their matches in Rabat.

Mr. Chelle acknowledged the physical and mental toll of the travel but insisted that professionalism and focus would shape Nigeria’s performance against the Atlas Lions.

“We know the journey has been tough,” the coach said.
“But at this level, excuses don’t count. The players are ready, mentally strong, and determined to reach the final.”

He added that experience and discipline would be crucial against a Moroccan side backed by a passionate home crowd.

“Morocco are strong, especially at home,” Mr. Chelle said.
“But we respect them without fearing them. We came here to compete and to win.”

The coach revealed that Nigeria might adopt a more cautious tactical approach due to fatigue from the intense schedule.

“My players are tired,” he said. “We may start more compact, allow Morocco more of the ball, and manage the game better early on.”

He explained that the Super Eagles could raise their intensity as the match progresses.

“We’ll try to control the first half. In the second half, we hope to return to our usual pressing and attacking style,” he added.

Mr. Iwobi said the team would approach the semi-final with the same winning mentality that has underpinned their unbeaten run at the tournament.

“Our mindset hasn’t changed,” the Fulham midfielder said.
“We believe in ourselves, we trust the plan, and we want to keep this momentum going.”

He attributed Nigeria’s impressive form to strong unity within the squad.

“We’re playing like a family. Everyone is fighting for each other, and when you have that bond, good results usually follow,” he said.

Mr. Iwobi also dismissed suggestions that Nigeria’s resurgence was due to major tactical changes from their earlier struggles in the World Cup qualifiers.

“I don’t think it’s about tactics. It’s about commitment, belief, and giving everything on the pitch. Right now, it’s working for us,” he said.

The semi-final will be played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, which has also hosted Morocco’s group matches, Round of 16 fixture, and quarter-final, and is scheduled to stage the final.

While Morocco will once again rely on strong home support, Nigeria will look to their potent attack to secure a place in the AFCON final.