Nigeria has appointed former Mali boss Eric Chelle as the new head coach of its men’s national side. This decision comes after a series of disappointing results and failed negotiations with other high-profile candidates.
A New Era Begins
Augustine Eguavoen had successfully guided the Super Eagles through the qualifying campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). However, the team’s recent performances have been underwhelming. Following the departure of Jose Peseiro after the 2023 Afcon, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) faced the challenge of finding a suitable replacement.
Chelle’s Task: Road to 2026
The NFF statement emphasized Chelle’s crucial responsibility: guiding the Super Eagles to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup finals. This is no easy feat. Nigeria has made a disappointing start to the qualifying campaign, drawing three of their first four games in Group C. They currently trail group leaders Rwanda by four points. The team faces a crucial period with upcoming matches against Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe at home in March. Only the group winner secures a direct berth at the finals in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Mixed Reactions and High Expectations
Eric Chelle is the first non-Nigerian African to assume the role of Super Eagles coach. His appointment has sparked mixed reactions among supporters. Many expected a high-profile foreign coach to take charge of a team boasting exceptional talents like reigning African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman and 2023 winner Victor Osimhen who clinched the CAF Men’s player of the year.
These are some of the fans reactions to the appointment.
Previous Attempts and Domestic Considerations
The NFF explored various options before appointing Chelle. Negotiations with renowned coaches like Herve Renard and Janne Andersson proved unsuccessful. A deal with Bruno Labbadia also collapsed. Some fans argued that a Nigerian coach, particularly considering Augustine Eguavoen’s recent success, would have been a more suitable choice. However, the underwhelming results under Finidi George before Eguavoen’s interim appointment may have influenced the NFF’s decision to seek an external solution.
A New Challenge Awaits
Chelle gained recognition after leading Mali to a historic victory against the Super Eagles in a friendly last March. This victory snapped a 50-year winning streak for Nigeria against their West African rivals. Now, with the World Cup qualifying campaign faltering, Chelle faces the immediate challenge of winning over the passionate Nigerian fanbase and steering the team back on track when the qualifiers resume in March.
