Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle believes Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 World Cup playoff performance will directly impact their quest for victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Chelle stressed that winning the continental title remains his top priority.
However, the coach acknowledged this ambition could face setbacks if Nigeria fails to advance through the inter-continental playoffs. The Super Eagles endured a challenging qualifying campaign, going without wins in their first four matches. This resulted in missing automatic qualification for the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Nigeria faces Gabon in a semi-final clash next Thursday. Victory could set up a decisive final against either DR Congo or Cameroon. The winner secures a ticket to the inter-continental stage.
Chelle’s Blueprint for Success
Chelle explained his approach: “Since March, we’ve operated under constant pressure. This familiarity will help us in Morocco. With playoff success, we’ll become formidable opponents.”
“Our immediate focus is the World Cup playoffs,” Chelle continued. “Winning the Gabon match comes first. Then we target the final. Only then can we fully shift to AFCON preparations. Coaching Nigeria demands winning everything. But we embrace this challenge with humility and hard work.”
He added: “This squad possesses exceptional talent. With unity, motivation, and seriousness, we can achieve anything.”
Should Nigeria progress through the playoffs, Chelle will concentrate fully on AFCON. The tournament runs from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Nigeria last won the competition in 2013. They narrowly lost the 2023 final to hosts Ivory Coast.
Regarding AFCON ambitions, Chelle stated: “We absolutely aim to win it. Morocco will host an outstanding tournament. The players share my determination to lift the trophy.”
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