Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has pledged to lead Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling on his players to adopt a warrior spirit as they gear up for a tense playoff campaign.
The Franco-Malian coach made the declaration during an interview with Nigerian legend Segun Odegbami on 90 Minutes with Mathematical on Eagle7FM on Saturday, expressing gratitude to supporters for standing by the team.
“Thanks to the fans. Thanks to Nigeria. I am so happy that I have brought smiles back to their faces,” Chelle said.
“We beat Benin because the fans pushed the players. I ask them to do the same during the playoffs. I’ll give my best for Nigeria, and Inshallah, we will go to the FIFA World Cup.”
Since taking charge in January, Chelle has revived a struggling Super Eagles side that had been winless in their first four qualifiers, with three draws and a defeat threatening their World Cup hopes.
Under his guidance, Nigeria bounced back impressively — winning four and drawing two of their next six matches to earn 14 points from a possible 18. The highlight came in Uyo earlier this month, when Nigeria cruised past Benin Republic 4-0, restoring national confidence.
Despite the turnaround, Nigeria still fell short of automatic qualification and will now contest a continental playoff in November for a chance to reach next March’s intercontinental decider.
Their first test will be a one-legged tie against Gabon, with Cameroon or DR Congo potentially awaiting in the next round.
Chelle sent a strong message to his players, saying, “Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is not a war, but it feels like one. My players need to have a warrior’s mindset — they have to be like sharks.”
His determination resonates deeply, especially after Nigeria’s painful miss in 2022, when Ghana snatched the World Cup ticket in Abuja.
