Eric Chelle optimistic as Nigeria gear up for World Cup playoffs | OneFootball

Interview

Chelle upbeat on Nigeria World Cup chances

Photo: Eric Chelle

Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle is upbeat about his team's chances of securing their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup global play-offs next year.

The Super Eagles will square off against Gabon in the inter-continental play-offs on Thursday, 13 November in Rabat after finishing as runners-up to South Africa in Group C.

In the other clash, DR Congo will face Cameroon on the same day, with the deciding match scheduled for 16 November.

Ahead of the mini-tournament, Chelle made it clear his objective is to reign supreme over the other three nations, who equally have the lifeline to keep their World Cup dream alive.

“Before AFCON, there's a crucial target - the World Cup play-offs. The goal is to win those matches. If we win the first, we'll aim for the second, then turn to AFCON,” he told CAFOnline.com.

The former Mali international acknowledges the pressure that comes with leading Nigeria and insists while he is not Nigerian by birth, the connection to the country is authentic.

“When you coach Nigeria you have to win everything. We proceed with humility, with a smile, and a will to work. If we stay serious, motivated and united, nothing is impossible,” Chelle added.

"I arrived as someone who is 50% Malian, 50% French, but today I am in Nigeria. I consider myself Nigerian and I am ready to give everything for this team and country.

It remains to be seen whether Chelle can guide the three-time African champions to the continental showpiece, having missed out in the 2022 edition in Qatar.