Nigerian Journalist Aniekeme Finbarr backs Eric Chelle amidst criticism over Super Eagles squad list
Nigerian journalist Aniekeme Finbarr has come out in support of new Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, following the controversy surrounding the recently announced 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Responding to a Facebook post by SportsRations’ Nsikakabasi Akpan, Finbarr offered a different perspective on the selection, which has sparked widespread debate among fans and analysts alike. In his reply, Finbarr wrote, “Sports analysts only look at things from a sporting perspective most times. Players don’t always transfer club form to the national team on their first few outings.”
He further explained that success in football, or any endeavor, requires a holistic approach. “To succeed in a game or any endeavour, many things count. It’s a good pick if the players give it their best and the coach comes out with a winning strategy that matches his team’s strength,” he stated.
Finbarr emphasized that while it’s natural for fans to have their preferences, sometimes the coach’s discretion should be respected. “Everyone cannot get invited. There will always be a player we think ought to be invited. It has always been so. I’m just saying, sometimes, we must give the coach the latitude for discretion,” he concluded.
The selection of the squad has stirred controversy in Nigeria, especially following the omission of Augsburg midfielder Frank Onyeka, who was not included in the squad despite his consistent performances for his club. Additionally, many fans were disappointed by the exclusion of in-form Glasgow Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers, while the inclusion of out-of-form forward Victor Boniface has raised further questions. The decision to call up Alhassan Ibrahim instead of Onyeka has also added fuel to the debate.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda on March 21 and Zimbabwe on March 25, Coach Eric Chelle faces intense scrutiny over his choices. With Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup at stake, many are eager to see how the new coach will navigate the challenges and put together a winning strategy.
The Super Eagles are expected to hit camp on Sunday, March 16, in preparation for the match against Rwanda before returning to Nigeria for the Zimbabwe clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Chelle, who took over the reins after Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, is under pressure to revive the team’s fortunes and secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
