Nigeria’s Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has praised Kenya’s Rising Stars for their attacking flair at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, despite their early exit from the tournament, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Rising Stars bowed out of the competition after a 2-2 draw against Nigeria’s Flying Eagles on Wednesday in Cairo.
It was a result that saw the East Africans finish bottom of Group B, having lost their earlier matches to Morocco (3-2) and Tunisia (3-1).
Kenya lit up the group with their energy and attacking intent, scoring six goals in total — three more than Nigeria — and opening the scoring in all three matches. But their inability to hold onto leads ultimately cost them a place in the quarterfinals.
Chelle, who arrived in Egypt hours before the match, was in the stands to watch the dramatic draw where Kenya twice took the lead before Nigeria fought back to rescue a point.
Nigeria’s boss Eric Chelle reveals Kenya’s strengths and flaws after four-goal thriller against Flying Eagles
After the match, the former Mali coach shared his thoughts on Kenya’s performance and offered advice on where they could improve.
“I like the transition when they [Kenya U20] get the ball back, they try to make some fast attacks and they have four players in offence who are so fast, strong and can score at any moment,” Chelle told Kenyan journalists in Egypt as per Pulse Sports.
“They need to work on defence. When they get the ball back, try to have possession because they have so many runners and at the big moments, they are a little tired.”
Chelle added: “I was surprised about Kenya but in reality, I am not surprised because the national team improves every day. I watch a lot of games about your [Kenya] national teams and the reality is that I am not surprised.”
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While Kenya’s U20 journey ends at the group stage, Chelle remains in Egypt as Nigeria prepare for a tough quarterfinal clash against defending champions Senegal.
Nigeria are the most successful nation in the history of the U20 AFCON, with a record seven titles, two silver and four bronze medals.