The recent appointment of French-Malian Eric Sekou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles has stirred a hornet’s nest among Nigeria’s football fraternity.
With the country’s chances of reaching next year’s FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico hanging in the balance following a poor start to the campaign, many see Chelle as unfit for the Super Eagles’ job.
After seven months of waiting, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) finally named Chelle the substantive head coach of the Super Eagles and tasked him with reviving the West African nation’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. This is an almost impossible task, given that the Eagles currently sit fifth in Group C of the qualifying table and must win all their remaining matches to have any hope of participating in the tournament.
Pointedly,Nigeria is a nation that breathes football, and consequently, the appointment of a former Mali national team coach has both sentimental value and pragmatic implications.
The Super Eagles’ World Cup 2026 qualifiers resumes on March 17 when the Eagles will play the Amavubi of Rwanda in Kigali. They will host their Zimbabwe counterparts a week later, on March 24, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State’s capital, with Eric Chelle expected to be in charge alongside his yet-to-be-named assistant coaches.
The NFF has trusted the French-Malian coach because they believe he effectively controls his squad and has the fighting spirit to win matches. Chelle, who has made a name for himself in various coaching roles, now faces the monumental task of revitalising a team that has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent years.
The Super Eagles have a rich history marked by moments of brilliance and heartbreak. From their triumphs in the Africa Cup of Nations to their memorable World Cup appearances, expectations surrounding the team are always high.
However, recent performances have left fans and stakeholders yearning for a return to the glory days.
In the considered opinion of this newspaper, Chelle’s challenge is not just to win matches but to restore faith in a team that has struggled to find its identity on the international stage.
One of Chelle’s immediate tasks will be to assess the current squad and identify the right blend of experience and youth. The Super Eagles boast a wealth of talent, with notable players plying their trade in top leagues worldwide.
However, talent alone is not enough. Chelle must instill a sense of unity and purpose within the squad, fostering a winning mentality that has sometimes been lacking.
Building a cohesive team that plays with fluidity and purpose will be crucial as they prepare for upcoming qualifiers and tournaments.
Moreover, Chelle must address the tactical shortcomings that have plagued the team in recent outings. The Super Eagles have often been criticized for their inconsistent performances and lack of a clear game plan. It will be essential for Chelle to implement a style of play that maximises his players’ strengths while minimising their weaknesses.
Whether he adopts a more attacking approach or solidifies the defense, finding the right tactical balance will be key to achieving success.
In addition to on-field strategies, Chelle must also navigate the complexities of Nigerian football culture. Nigerian fans’ passion is unmatched, and with that comes immense pressure. Managing expectations from fans, the media, and the Nigeria Football Federation will require a deft touch. Communication will be vital; Chelle must articulate his vision clearly and engage with all stakeholders to foster a supportive environment.
Furthermore, Chelle should prioritise the development of local talent. Nigeria has a rich pool of emerging players who are eager to make their mark. Integrating these young stars from the domestic leagues into the senior team will provide them with invaluable experience and ensure the Super Eagles’ long-term sustainability.
As the Super Eagles embark on this new journey under Eric Chelle, the road ahead will be challenging. However, we believe that with the right approach, determination, and a clear vision, the team has the potential to rise once again to prominence in African and world football.
The task before Chelle is significant, but the rewards of success are even more remarkable. The eyes of a nation are upon him, and the hope is that he can lead the Super Eagles back to the heights they once soared.
