Eric Sékou Chelle is under immediate pressure as he prepares for his first matches in charge of Nigeria’s national team, with World Cup qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
The Super Eagles will face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in the fifth and sixth rounds of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
With Nigeria struggling in their group, failure to secure victories in both matches could severely damage their chances of progressing and place Chelle’s future as head coach in jeopardy.
A challenging start for Chelle
Appointed on January 12, 2025, Chelle’s arrival was met with skepticism due to his limited experience and lack of a proven track record at the highest level.
The former Mali coach, who previously had stints at MC Oran, now faces the daunting task of reviving a Nigerian team that has underperformed in the qualifiers so far.
The Super Eagles, traditionally one of Africa’s football powerhouses, have struggled to impose themselves in Group C.
With three points from four matches, Nigeria sits fifth in the group, trailing leaders Rwanda by four points.
A swift turnaround is essential if they are to reclaim their status as favorites for qualification.
Nigeria struggles despite talent
Despite their pedigree, Nigeria has yet to win a match in the qualifiers, registering three draws and one defeat.
The upcoming matches against Rwanda on March 20 and Zimbabwe on March 25 are now must-win encounters.
Securing six points from these fixtures would reignite their qualification hopes and ease the mounting pressure on Chelle.
Victory in the first game could also provide a crucial morale boost, helping to rally home support for the second fixture.
However, the Super Eagles face stiff competition from South Africa and Benin, both of whom have seven points and remain serious contenders for the top spot.
Tactical decisions and squad selections
Chelle inherits a squad brimming with talent, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, William Troost-Ekong, and Ola Aina.
With such depth, individual quality is not the issue; rather, the challenge lies in creating a cohesive unit capable of delivering results.
One of Chelle’s biggest decisions will be tactical. Nigeria reached the AFCON final with a 3-4-3 formation, but the new coach has shown a preference for a 4-3-1-2 setup.
With no friendly matches to fine-tune his approach, he must decide whether to build on past success or implement his own vision from the outset.
Chelle’s squad includes four newcomers: goalkeeper Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars), striker Tolu Arokodare (Genk), midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes), and defender Igor Ogbu (Slavia Prague).
However, the omission of experienced center-back Semi Ajayi has raised eyebrows, leaving questions about defensive stability.
Make-or-break moment for Chelle
The stakes could not be higher for Chelle. A successful start would strengthen his position and establish credibility among fans and officials.
Conversely, failure to deliver positive results may lead to swift consequences, as Nigeria’s football federation is known for its lack of patience with underperforming coaches.
With qualification hopes and his future on the line, Chelle faces a defining moment in his tenure.
How he navigates these critical matches will determine whether he cements his role or faces an early exit.
