Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, has shed light on his decision not to field Kelechi Iheanacho during Nigeria’s 2-0 triumph over Cameroon in the 2023 AFCON round of 16 match, on Saturday.

Despite being present on the bench and having not played a single minute since his late arrival to camp due to injury, Iheanacho remained an unused substitute as Ademola Lookman’s brace secured Nigeria’s victory over the five-time champions.

Addressing the media post-match, Peseiro clarified his rationale for leaving the forward on the bench, emphasizing the team’s strategic approach.

“I explained yesterday (Friday). I know the value, quality, and capacity of Kelechi,” Peseiro started.

“I don’t like to speak about individual situations because other players didn’t play also.”

Highlighting the circumstances surrounding Iheanacho’s situation, Peseiro stressed that, “Kelechi arrived here without one collective practice. Thanks to Leicester [City] for his recovery, we brought him here but without collective training.”

“If we needed to score today (Saturday), it is possible he would have entered but they didn’t need to score. I need to protect my goal; why put Kelechi if I am fighting to win the match?”