Super Eagles Coach Clashes With NFF Over Squad Selection
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle found himself in a minor confrontation with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) before finally releasing his 24-man squad for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon. The tactical disagreement emerged just days before Nigeria's must-win encounter with the Panthers scheduled for November 13.
The 47-year-old Malian tactician, who guided Nigeria to a second-place finish in CAF qualification Group C with 17 points, submitted his squad selection earlier but faced resistance from federation officials over his decision to expand the roster beyond the traditional 23 players.
Behind the Squad Delay: Cost vs Preparation
According to sources within the NFF, the delay in announcing the squad resulted from Chelle's insistence on having an expanded team despite the federation's concerns about additional costs. The coach argued that Nigeria needed more than the usual 23 players considering the potential of advancing to face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the next round.
"Coach Eric Chelle submitted his squad much earlier and we were about to name the squad before Gabon," revealed an NFF official. "The issue was that Chelle demanded for a bigger squad, while the NFF wanted the coach to only call up 23 players to save cost."
Chelle maintained his position, emphasizing the importance of having adequate cover for potential injuries and fatigue, especially with the possibility of two critical matches occurring within a short timeframe.
Journalist Backs Chelle's Strategic Thinking
Nigerian sports journalist Arinzechi Chukwunonso has thrown his weight behind Chelle's decision, praising the coach's foresight and confidence. In an exclusive comment, Chukwunonso stated: "I like the confidence of Eric Chelle; he knows what he wants and the Nigeria Football Federation must help him succeed. The addition made by the Super Eagles coach is a welcome idea and he is thinking two steps ahead of the NFF officials."
The squad composition reflects Chelle's tactical approach, featuring eight forwards, five midfielders, eight defenders, and three goalkeepers. Among the notable inclusions is West Bromwich Albion defender Semi Ajayi, who remains part of the squad despite being suspended for the Gabon encounter.
Ajayi has emerged as one of Nigeria's most reliable defenders since making his international debut, having replaced captain William Troost-Ekong in the final two qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic. His inclusion demonstrates Chelle's long-term planning and trust in the defender's abilities beyond the immediate fixture.
Nigeria's World Cup hopes now rest on navigating past Gabon, with the winner advancing to face either DR Congo or Cameroon for Africa's sole ticket to the intercontinental playoffs. The Super Eagles are chasing qualification after South Africa secured the automatic ticket from their group.
