Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, says winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs is the team’s top priority as they prepare to face Gabon in the opening fixture of the qualifying tournament in Rabat, Morocco.
Focus on World Cup Playoffs
The Super Eagles are one of four African teams — alongside Gabon, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo — competing in the playoff mini-tournament.
Nigeria’s campaign begins with a semi-final clash against Gabon on Thursday, November 13, at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat.
Speaking to CAFonline, Chelle emphasized that a strong showing in the playoffs is essential not only for World Cup qualification but also as momentum heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“Before AFCON, there’s a crucial target: the World Cup play-offs. The goal is to win those matches,” Chelle said.
Winning Mentality with Humility
Chelle, who recently took charge of the Super Eagles, acknowledged the pressure that comes with managing one of Africa’s most successful football nations.
“When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything,” he admitted.
“But we proceed with humility, with a smile and a will to work.”
He praised the quality and unity within the squad and believes those attributes will make Nigeria a formidable force once they gain momentum.
“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.”
Eyes on AFCON 2025
Chelle said his team is working toward multiple goals — balancing preparations for both the World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 AFCON.
“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.”
With Nigeria’s first test coming against Gabon, the coach insists that only focus, discipline, and belief will carry the Super Eagles to victory — and set the tone for a successful 2025 campaign.
