Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, says a strong performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs will significantly elevate Nigeria’s chances of claiming the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.
Nigeria will compete in the playoffs next week in Rabat, Morocco, alongside Gabon, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Super Eagles open their campaign against Gabon’s Panthers in the first semi-final at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex on Thursday, November 13.
Chelle noted that his team will be incredibly difficult to stop if they come out on top in the playoffs. He described their mission as a focused, two-step journey.
“Before AFCON, we have a crucial objective: the World Cup playoffs. The goal is to win those matches — first against Gabon on November 13, and then the final on November 16 if we advance,” Chelle told CAFonline. “If we win the first, we go for the second, and afterward our attention shifts fully to AFCON. We’re working on both fronts, but our mindset must start with the immediate challenges.”
He also highlighted the immense expectations that come with leading the Nigerian national team.
“When you coach Nigeria, you’re expected to win everything. But we approach it with humility, positivity, and hard work. This team has exceptional players. If we remain focused, motivated, and united, nothing is impossible. And if we head into AFCON on the back of playoff success, stopping us will be very hard,” he added.
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