AFCON 2025: Why Victor Osimhen didn't play a penalty vs. Morocco

Eric Chelle Explains Why Victor Osimhen Did Not Take a Penalty in AFCON 2025 Semifinal Defeat

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has clarified why Victor Osimhen was not included among Nigeria’s penalty takers during their dramatic semifinal loss to Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria were defeated 4–2 on penalties after extra time, a result that triggered widespread debate among fans who questioned the absence of one of the team’s biggest stars in the shootout.

Why Osimhen Was Absent

Osimhen had been substituted late in extra time, with Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu replacing him. That substitution automatically ruled the Galatasaray forward out of the penalty contest.

However, Chelle later revealed that the decision was primarily influenced by fitness concerns.

Speaking on RMC Sport’s After Foot, the Malian tactician explained that Osimhen personally informed him he was not fit enough to take a spot kick.

“We practice penalties in every training session. I keep data on who converts the most and who struggles,” Chelle said. “Before the shootout, Victor told me, ‘Coach, my ankle is very bad, it hurts, I can’t take a penalty.’”

The coach emphasized that penalty selections are not made arbitrarily but are based on preparation metrics and player readiness.

The Shootout Breakdown

Paul Onuachu converted Nigeria’s first penalty, but misses from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyeamachi ultimately proved decisive as Morocco advanced to the final.

Questions were also raised about the absence of Alex Iwobi from the penalty lineup. Chelle declined to provide detailed reasoning.

“I have my statistics. Ademola Lookman was the fifth taker. For Iwobi, that is something I should not discuss. What happens inside the group stays in the group,” he stated.

Data, Responsibility, and Mental Strength

Chelle stressed that penalty shootout decisions are heavily influenced by data tracking and psychological preparedness.

According to him, stepping up in a shootout requires not just technical ability but mental resilience.

“Against Egypt, I chose players who accept responsibility. When you step up, you must carry the blame,” Chelle added.

He referenced Nigeria’s third-place playoff victory over Egypt where the Super Eagles secured bronze via penalties as evidence that the approach works when players are both prepared and willing to shoulder responsibility.

Ending the Tournament on a Positive Note

Despite the disappointment of falling short in the semifinal, Nigeria concluded their AFCON 2025 campaign with a strong finish, defeating Egypt to secure the bronze medal.

While the semifinal exit sparked criticism and debate, Chelle’s explanation highlights the blend of fitness assessment, statistical analysis, and psychological readiness that informs high-stakes decisions at the elite level.