Former Super Eagles forward Brown Ideye has commended head coach Eric Chelle for adopting a two-striker formation in Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho but insists the team must show greater urgency and consistency in attack.

Ideye hails Chelle’s tactical adjustment

Chelle started Victor Osimhen alongside Tolu Arokodare in a 4-4-2 setup during Friday’s 2-1 victory in Polokwane, while Akor Adams came on in the second half for his debut.

Ideye, speaking on SuperSport’s Naija Made, described the tactical change as “a step in the right direction” after Osimhen had often been left isolated in previous matches.

“I’ve been calling for this kind of setup for a long time,” Ideye said. “Osimhen cannot do it alone. He needs a partner who can link up and share the workload in attack.”

‘We need more urgency and ruthlessness’

Despite Nigeria being the only team in Group C to score in every qualifier so far, the Super Eagles have managed just 11 goals in nine games, ranking behind Benin and South Africa with 12 each.

Ideye believes the team’s lack of urgency could prove costly if qualification comes down to goal difference.

“The team needs to keep pushing after scoring. Don’t relax; run back, press, and go for more,” he said. “With the quality of players we have, we should be scoring freely and finishing games stronger.”

Osimhen leads by example

After captain William Troost-Ekong converted a 55th-minute penalty against Lesotho, Osimhen was seen urging his teammates to resume play immediately instead of celebrating.

Ideye highlighted this as a positive sign of leadership and the mentality needed at this stage of the campaign.

Nigeria will now face Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, needing a convincing win and possibly help from Rwanda, to keep their 2026 World Cup hopes alive.