Former Real Madrid midfielder tells Eric Chelle to drop Arokodare from Super Eagles starting XI

Former Real Madrid midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has called on manager Eric Chelle to drop Tolu Arokodare from Nigeria's starting lineup following the striker's underwhelming display in the 2-1 victory over Lesotho in Friday's 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers striker endured a difficult evening in front of goal, failing to make an impact in attack.

Arokodare missed a golden opportunity to put Nigeria ahead shortly before halftime when he failed to connect with a well-delivered corner from Moses Simon, despite being unmarked inside the box.

Speaking during his post-match analysis on Sporty TV, Adepoju, who was nicknamed Headmaster during his playing days for his aerial prowess, expressed dissatisfaction with the team's first-half performance, describing it as poor and lacking attacking intent.

The three-time World Cupper noted that he was particularly disappointed with Arokodare's missed header, arguing that his failure to direct the ball properly was costly. 

He felt that given Arokodare’s physical attributes, he should have done much better with the opportunity.

Adepoju further suggested that Chelle should have substituted Arokodare at halftime, insisting that the forward's style of play did not suit the team's attacking rhythm. 

He proposed that Nigeria would benefit from deploying a more mobile supporting striker capable of linking midfield and attack.

Adepoju went on to explain that Arokodare's positioning often clashed with that of Victor Osimhen, leading to confusion in attack. 

He observed that both players were frequently making runs toward the same area instead of alternating between the near and far posts, which limited Nigeria's offensive width and effectiveness in the final third.

He concluded that tactical adjustments were needed to improve the Super Eagles’ attacking cohesion ahead of their next qualifying fixture.

Adeyemi Adewale

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