Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle is facing mounting pressure over his future after renewed criticism followed the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and a third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The scrutiny comes at one of the most challenging moments of Chelle’s tenure, with sections of supporters and analysts questioning whether the objectives set for the national team have been met.
Concerns about his position had surfaced even before the start of the continental tournament, but recent outcomes have intensified the debate.
Central to the criticism is Nigeria’s absence from the next World Cup, widely viewed as a major setback for a country with a long history of regular participation on the global stage.
For many observers, the Super Eagles possessed a squad strong enough to secure qualification, making the failure to do so difficult to accept.
The team’s performance at the Africa Cup of Nations has also been closely examined.
Although finishing third represents a podium place, it has been judged by some as falling short of expectations given the depth and quality within the squad.
Analysts have pointed to a lack of consistency across the tournament, questioning whether Nigeria ever found a clear tactical identity.
Several of Chelle’s technical decisions during the competition have been singled out for criticism, with debates focusing on team selection, in-game adjustments and the overall approach in decisive matches.
Critics argue that the Super Eagles did not always show the authority or ambition expected of one of Africa’s most decorated football nations.
As a result, uncertainty now surrounds the coach’s future.
Some voices within Nigerian football are urging the federation to consider a change, calling for a new direction and a different vision to restore confidence and competitiveness.
They believe that a fresh appointment could help reset the team after a disappointing cycle.
Others have adopted a more cautious stance, suggesting that any decision should be based on a detailed evaluation of Chelle’s tenure rather than immediate reactions to recent results.
They argue that the broader context, including long-term development and structural issues, should be taken into account before conclusions are drawn.
What is clear is that Eric Chelle is now at a critical juncture.
Managing expectations in Nigeria is rarely straightforward, and the pressure associated with leading the Super Eagles is among the highest on the continent.
With public debate intensifying and demands for success growing louder, the coming weeks are likely to play a decisive role in determining whether Chelle continues his role at the helm of Nigerian football.
