Nigeria, Dec. 30 -- Head coach Eric Chelle has moved decisively to defend his methods as the Super Eagles prepare for their final Group C showdown against Uganda.

He spoke about his substitutions and his broader vision for Nigeria's Africa Cup of Nations campaign, even as questions continue to swirl around the team's defensive lapses.

Nigeria arrive in Fes already qualified for the Round of 16 after back-to-back wins over Tanzania and Tunisia, but the thrilling 3-2 victory against the Carthage Eagles reopened a familiar debate: game management, late concessions, and the impact of substitutions.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chelle made it clear that football rarely conforms to hindsight narratives.

Criticism intensified ...