Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has praised his players following Nigeria’s 4-2 penalty shootout win over Egypt in the AFCON third-place playoff on Saturday.

Chelle said the team gave their all and earned his lasting respect.

The match ended 0-0 after regulation time, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali making crucial saves against Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush during the penalties.

“You know it’s not easy when a French guy comes in, and I was very demanding with them,” Chelle said in a post-match interview.

“I’m extremely proud of them—they gave everything for me, and they have definitely won my respect for life.”