Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle believes a strong showing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs will serve as the perfect foundation for Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign.
The playoffs, which will take place in Rabat, Morocco, feature Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Super Eagles begin their journey with a semi-final clash against Gabon on Thursday, November 13, at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex.
Chelle made it clear that his immediate focus is on securing victory in the playoffs, as it will set the tone for the team’s momentum going into AFCON.
“Before AFCON, there’s a crucial target: the World Cup play-offs. The goal is to win those matches,” Chelle told CAFonline.
“If we win the first, we’ll aim for the second, then turn to AFCON. We’re working in parallel, but our mindset must first be on those immediate tests.”
The coach’s statement underlines his belief that success breeds confidence. For Chelle, dominating the playoffs won’t just be about qualification — it’s about building belief, rhythm, and cohesion ahead of Africa’s biggest football competition.
Chelle also acknowledged the immense pressure that comes with managing the Super Eagles, a team with one of the most passionate fan bases in world football.
“When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything. But we proceed with humility, with a smile and a will to work,” he said.
“This team has great players. If we stay serious, motivated, and united, nothing is impossible. If we arrive on the back of play-off success, stopping us will be difficult.”
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali echoed Chelle’s confidence earlier in the week, boldly declaring that Nigeria is going to AFCON 2025 to win.
That shared mentality across the squad is exactly what Chelle wants — a unified team focused on both short-term goals and long-term triumph.
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