From World Cup qualifiers to AFCON quarter-finals — Nigeria’s journey under Chelle.
Exactly one year after Eric Sékou Chelle was announced as head coach of the Nigeria Super Eagles, the Franco-Malian tactician has established a distinct identity for Nigeria’s national team — blending tactical innovation, attacking football, and resilience on the continental stage.
Chelle was appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on January 7, 2025, taking over a team that had been without a permanent coach for months following underwhelming results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
A Strategic Appointment with Clear Ambitions
The NFF brought in the former Mali coach to rejuvenate the Super Eagles and restore Nigeria’s prominence in African and global football. Chelle’s hiring marked a strategic shift: he became the first non-Nigerian African to lead the Super Eagles, heightening both expectations and scrutiny.
Before Nigeria, Chelle had guided Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, showcasing tactical awareness and leadership on the continental stage — credentials that appealed to the NFF as Nigeria sought stability after coaching turnover.
Early Days: Rebuilding Confidence and Systems
Chelle’s first competitive action came during the March 2025 international break, kick-starting his tenure with a World Cup qualifier away win against Rwanda, highlighted by a brace from Victor Osimhen.
Chelle introduced tactical adjustments, including a shift to formations that emphasized fluid attacking play and quicker transitions from defence to attack. While early results were mixed including a draw against Zimbabwe after conceding late — the team’s performances began to show signs of cohesion.
Impressive Scoring and Attacking Identity
Under Chelle, the Super Eagles have maintained a remarkable record: the team has not failed to score under his leadership, reflecting a renewed attacking philosophy. Nigeria has enjoyed high-scoring victories, such as:
A 4–1 win over Gabon
A 4–0 thrashing of Benin Republic
Another 4–0 victory against Mozambique at AFCON 2025
These emphatic performances contrast sharply with Nigeria’s struggles under previous coaches in recent years. Overall, after 19 matches in charge, Chelle boasts a points per game average of around 2.05, one of the strongest in recent Super Eagles history.
Despite the positives, Chelle’s tenure has faced criticism and controversy. Many Nigerian fans initially questioned his experience noting his background in French lower leagues and a relatively modest managerial resume before Mali with some expressing displeasure at the NFF’s decision.
There have also been occasional reports of tension including claims of interference from NFF officials during tactical choices, although Chelle has maintained focus on the team and ignored calls for his dismissal after failing to secure direct 2026 World Cup qualification.
In contrast, voices from within Nigeria’s football community including former internationals have publicly backed Chelle, stressing that the squad needs continuity and stability to succeed at AFCON and beyond.
AFCON 2025 and the Bigger Picture
At the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Chelle’s Super Eagles have shown tactical maturity and attacking intent, reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a contender for continental honors. Their performance in the tournament’s knockout stages reflects increased team confidence under the Franco-Malian manager.
Chelle’s first year in charge has also laid foundations for longer-term development, blending Nigeria’s rich attacking talent with a system that aims to balance offensive firepower and tactical discipline essential ingredients for both AFCON success and future World Cup qualification.
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