What Eric Chelle will need to succeed with the Super Eagles – Former NFF Technical Director speaks
Former Technical Director of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Barrister Chris Green, has expressed his support for the newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, and highlighted key factors that will be crucial for his success with the team.
The Super Eagles have been without a permanent head coach since June 2024 when Finidi George was dismissed following disappointing World Cup qualifying results. Augustine Eguavoen has since stepped in, leading the team to qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers approach in March, the NFF announced the appointment of Eric Chelle, former Mali head coach, to lead Nigeria’s push for World Cup qualification.
Green, now a Commissioner in Rivers State, offering his advice to the NFF, urged them to ensure that Chelle is given the proper environment to succeed. “Since the NFF has announced him, I hope they’ve also arranged the environment he will work in so that he can thrive and qualify us for the next World Cup,” Green said. “We have the talents, but we don’t know the mentality of the players, the discipline in the team, and the suitability of the coach to the Super Eagles.”
Green’s comments stress the importance of both the right resources and a well-prepared squad to ensure Chelle’s success in leading the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign resumes on March 19, when they face Rwanda away, followed by a home match against Zimbabwe on March 22 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.