Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has expressed confidence that Nigeria will qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging his players to maintain a warrior-like mentality ahead of the crucial playoff games.
Speaking during an interview with Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami on 90 Minutes with Mathematical on Eagle7FM on Saturday, the Franco-Malian coach thanked fans for their unwavering support and said their encouragement had been vital to the team’s recent success.
“Thanks to the fans. Thanks to Nigeria. I am so happy that I have brought back the smiles on their faces,” Chelle said. “We beat Benin because the fans pushed the players. I ask them this: They have to do this for the playoffs… I plan to do my best for Nigeria, and Inshallah, we will go to the FIFA World Cup.”
Chelle, who took charge of the national team in January after a difficult start to the qualifiers, has overseen a significant turnaround. When he assumed the role, the Super Eagles were winless in their first four qualifiers, with three draws and a defeat putting their campaign in jeopardy.
Since then, the team has won four and drawn two of their last six matches, earning 14 points from a possible 18. Their resurgence peaked earlier this month with a 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo — a result that reignited hopes of qualification.
Despite the strong finish, Nigeria missed out on automatic qualification and will now compete in a continental playoff in November for a chance to reach next March’s intercontinental tie. The Super Eagles will first face Gabon in a one-legged playoff, with Cameroon or DR Congo potentially waiting in the next round.
Chelle emphasized the need for mental strength and determination as his players prepare for the decisive games. “Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is not a war, but it is like a war,” he said. “My players need to have a warrior state of mind. They have to be like sharks.”
His comments carry extra significance as Nigeria seeks redemption after missing out on the 2022 World Cup, where Ghana eliminated them on away goals in Abuja.