Newly appointed Super Eagles head coach, [b]Eric Chelle[/b], has committed to working diligently to secure Nigeria’s spot at the [b]2026 FIFA World Cup[/b].
Chelle, 47, was officially unveiled on Monday at the media conference room of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, marking the beginning of his journey with the Nigerian national team.
The former Mali international, who has years of experience in African football, signed a two-year contract with the option of an additional year, further solidifying his long-term vision for the Super Eagles. Chelle’s appointment was met with optimism, as his reputation for tactical awareness and leadership in African football has earned him a positive reception in Nigeria.
Expressing gratitude during the event, Chelle said, “I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC, and indeed all Nigerians for this big opportunity. Coaching the Super Eagles of Nigeria is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted. I am elated and will do my utmost best.”
Chelle emphasized his preference for attacking football, an approach he believes will excite fans and lead to success on the international stage. “Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style,” Chelle explained. “I know the expectations of Nigerians, and I will settle down and work diligently with my assistants towards the goal of qualifying the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
Despite the team’s challenges in the current qualifying campaign, which has seen them winless in Group C with three draws and a loss, Chelle is confident in his ability to turn things around. His immediate task will be to get the Super Eagles back on track when they face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, crucial matches that will define the team's path toward qualification. Chelle is committed to instilling a sense of discipline and unity within the squad to meet these challenges head-on and improve Nigeria's World Cup hopes.
