Nigeria’s football governing body, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has appointed former Mali boss Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles. This marks a historic first, as Chelle becomes the first non-Nigerian African to lead the three-time Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) champions.
The 47-year-old, a former Mali international, takes over from interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, who guided the Super Eagles to a successful qualification for the 2025 Afcon in Morocco. Chelle’s appointment comes at a critical time, with Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign faltering.
Chelle previously spent over two years managing Mali, leading the Eagles to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Afcon, where they were eliminated by eventual winners Ivory Coast in extra time. However, he was dismissed in June 2023 after mixed performances. His recent claim to fame includes a historic friendly win against Nigeria in March 2023—the first for Mali in 50 years.
The NFF has tasked Chelle with securing Nigeria’s spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The Super Eagles currently sit four points behind Group C leaders Rwanda, with three draws in four games. Only the group winners are guaranteed a place at the World Cup, adding pressure to Chelle’s role ahead of key matches in March against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
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The decision to appoint Chelle has sparked diverse reactions among Nigerian football supporters. Many had anticipated a high-profile foreign coach for a squad boasting stars like reigning African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman and 2023 award winner Victor Osimhen.
Negotiations last year with notable figures such as two-time Afcon-winning coach Hervé Renard, former Sweden boss Janne Andersson, and Bruno Labbadia reportedly collapsed, leaving the NFF to explore alternatives.
Some fans argue that a Nigerian coach, particularly Augustine Eguavoen, could have retained the position after his success in Afcon qualification. However, the poor results under Finidi George before Eguavoen’s tenure may have influenced the NFF’s decision to seek external leadership.
Chelle’s immediate challenge will be to revitalize the Super Eagles’ World Cup campaign and win over a passionate yet skeptical fanbase. His ability to balance the expectations of a football-loving nation while delivering results will be closely watched.
The NFF has not disclosed the duration of Chelle’s contract, but his success—or lack thereof—could define a pivotal chapter in Nigeria’s football history. With his track record and understanding of African football dynamics, Chelle faces a monumental task to restore Nigeria’s dominance on the global stage.
