World Cup Success Will Drive AFCON Dream: Super Eagles Coach Chelle

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, is confident that a strong performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs will greatly enhance his team’s prospects of securing the championship at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Nigeria is preparing to participate in the playoffs, scheduled to take place in Rabat, Morocco next week, alongside Gabon, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Super Eagles are set to take on Gabon’s Panthers in the first semi-final at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex on Thursday, November 13.

Chelle expressed that his team would be unstoppable if they emerge victorious in the playoffs. He described a clear, two-step strategy:

“Before AFCON, there’s a crucial target: the World Cup play-offs. The goal is to win those matches, against Gabon on November 13 and, if successful, the final on November 16,” Chelle told CAFonline. “If we win the first, we’ll aim for the second, then turn to AFCON. We’re working in parallel, but our mindset must first be on those immediate tests.”

The coach highlighted the immense expectations that accompany leading the Nigerian national team.

“When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything. But we proceed with humility, with a smile and a will to work. This team has great players. If we stay serious, motivated and united, nothing is impossible. If we arrive on the back of play-off success, stopping us will be difficult,” he concluded.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli