Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle during AFCON 2025 press conference
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has finally addressed the growing debate surrounding his team selection at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that training performances—not past heroics or reputation—will decide who starts for Nigeria.
The conversation intensified after Nigeria’s impressive 3–1 victory over Uganda in their final group game, where Chelle fielded a heavily rotated squad that delivered with confidence and flair.
Against Uganda, Chelle handed senior debuts to Ryan Alebiosu, Igoh Ogbu, Tochukwu Nnadi, and Salim Lawal. He also recalled Paul Onuachu and Raphael Onyedika, with the latter stealing the headlines by scoring a brilliant brace.
The performance immediately sparked calls from fans and pundits for the so-called “Uganda heroes” to retain their places as Nigeria heads into the AFCON Round of 16 against Mozambique.
But Chelle has made it clear that sentiment will not influence his decisions.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, the Super Eagles boss was firm in his stance.
“We looked at the three games from the group stage, but the training session is the most important one,” Chelle said.
“The training session matters more to me because this is a question about the group. If a player has a good training session, they might get a chance to play.”
It is a message that underlines discipline, competition, and accountability within the squad—qualities that have defined Nigeria’s flawless group-stage campaign.
Nigeria stormed into the knockout phase with a 100 percent record, sweeping past Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. While confidence is high, Chelle insists his focus remains on the bigger picture rather than individual praise.
“That’s why every time I mention that we are focused on our game project and on our training session,” he added.
“I hope to have a good game tomorrow.”
Despite Nigeria entering the match as strong favourites, Mozambique are not to be underestimated. The Mambas are making history by reaching the AFCON knockout stage for the first time and will be eager to prove they belong on the big stage.
The Round of 16 clash at the Stade de Fès promises intensity, tactical discipline, and high stakes—exactly the kind of test Chelle believes his collective-focused Super Eagles are ready for.
As AFCON 2025 heats up, one thing is clear: under Eric Chelle, no shirt is guaranteed, and every training session could define Nigeria’s journey.
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