Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has assured Nigerians that his team will strive until the very end to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a convincing 4–0 win over Benin Republic that has rekindled hopes nationwide.
In a heartfelt interview with former captain Segun Odegbami, Chelle expressed his appreciation to the fans, attributing the team’s revival to their unwavering support.
Chelle’s commitment to Super Eagles supporters
”I am grateful to the fans. Thank you, Nigeria. I am thrilled to have restored smiles to their faces,” Chelle stated during his conversation with Segun Odegbami.
”We triumphed over Benin because the fans motivated the players. I urge them to continue this support [for the playoffs]… I am determined to give my best for Nigeria, and Inshallah, we will qualify for the FIFA World Cup.”
The Malian-born coach, who assumed his role earlier this year, has managed to stabilize the team after a challenging start to the qualification process.
His strategic discipline and emphasis on team cohesion appear to have yielded positive results, as Nigeria delivered their most dominant performance in recent months.
Nigeria’s journey to the World Cup
With the group stages completed, Nigeria now faces a more challenging route through the CAF playoff rounds. The Super Eagles have been matched against Gabon in the semi-final stage, while Cameroon will compete against DR Congo in the other match.
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A win over Gabon would pave the way for a potential high-stakes final showdown against either Cameroon or DR Congo, with the victor moving on to the FIFA Intercontinental Playoffs.
This phase will see Nigeria representing Africa against teams from Asia, South America, Oceania, and North America for one of the last two World Cup berths.
Currently ranked 45th in the world, Nigeria has a solid opportunity to be seeded, which could grant them a bye to the final playoff round.
With lower-ranked teams such as Bolivia and New Caledonia already confirmed for the intercontinental stage, Chelle’s squad could find themselves in a favorable position, assuming they successfully navigate the upcoming challenges.
