Chelle confident as Super Eagles chase 2026 World Cup qualification

DDM News

Despite a poor start, Eric Chelle believes Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles are currently fourth in their qualifying group, six points behind group leaders South Africa, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.

Only four matches remain in the qualifying campaign, making each game crucial for Nigeria’s hopes of qualification.

Chelle, who became head coach earlier this year, says the target is still possible with unity and determination.

He reflected on the team’s performance at the recent Unity Cup in London, which Nigeria won convincingly.

“We scored goals, created chances, and showed good signs in our overall play,” Chelle said about the tournament.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the Unity Cup helped build confidence and cohesion among players and coaching staff.

The victory was a morale booster ahead of Nigeria’s critical World Cup qualifiers in September and October.

Chelle emphasized teamwork and the importance of unity in both attacking and defensive phases of the game.

“What matters most is playing together,  in both attack and defence,” Chelle said during a post-tournament interview.

He also highlighted the need for physical and mental strength in their pursuit of qualification.

“We must become true warriors on the pitch,” he added, calling for total commitment from every player.

Nigeria will host Rwanda’s Amavubi in Uyo and later travel to face South Africa in a key fixture.

These upcoming matches are expected to be decisive in determining Nigeria’s World Cup qualification chances.

Chelle stressed that belief, focus, and preparation will be key to overcoming the current group stage deficit.

“The Unity Cup victory was important, but the real test starts with Rwanda and South Africa,” he said.

“We must focus, train harder, and play as one team,” he added during a team meeting.

Chelle believes Nigeria still controls its fate if the players remain committed to the mission ahead.

The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

That failure has put pressure on the current team to avoid another absence from the world stage.

Chelle’s appointment was part of efforts by the Nigeria Football Federation to rebuild the national team.

Nigeria’s squad includes talented players like Victor Boniface, Terem Moffi, and Wilfred Ndidi.

However, Chelle noted that skill alone will not be enough to secure qualification.

“We have the talent, but talent alone is not enough,” he warned in a press briefing.

He concluded by urging the team to give maximum effort in every remaining fixture.

“We must fight for every point,” Chelle said, encouraging players to stay focused and committed.

As the qualifiers resume, fans hope the team can rise to the challenge and reach the 2026 World Cup.

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