Nigerian Lady Films Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle at Abuja Airport
A Nigerian lady recently captured a candid moment with the head coach of Nigeria's national football team, Eric Chelle, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The encounter, which occurred as the coach appeared to be traveling, was documented in a video that has since gained significant traction across various social media platforms.
Viral Video Details and Social Media Reactions
The lady, identified on TikTok as @_nmco1, filmed Coach Chelle as he moved through the airport terminal. In the clip, the Franco-Malian coach is seen wearing a green and white sweatshirt, carrying a backpack, and holding four pieces of hand luggage. The video was posted with the caption: "Guess I met at the airport. oh zaddy #coach #supereagles #can."
The timing of the video's release is particularly notable, as it emerged just days after the Super Eagles secured the bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 tournament held in Morocco. This context has amplified interest in the coach's movements and current status.
Social media users quickly flooded the comment section with diverse observations and opinions:
- @rabby_536 expressed admiration, writing: "Abeg help me give ham kiss. (I too love that man)"
- @Chioma raised security concerns: "Haa where national treasure dey go without security na...no be so ooo..."
- @clementbenedicta questioned: "dont tell me he he not longer the coach of nigeria"
- @Ahmed@aishat complimented: "The finest and the best"
- @wardrobe2 declared: "One and only loved coach"
- @chrisigwe85 showed support: "our one and only coach, Erich Chelle, remain blessed we Nigerians love you"
Recent Context: AFCON Performance and Public Encounters
This airport sighting follows another notable public interaction involving Coach Chelle. After Nigeria's semi-final loss to Morocco in the AFCON tournament, a Nigerian female journalist addressed him emotionally during a press conference. Although her speech was interrupted, many observers noted the coach's visible reaction to her words, which generated mixed responses online.
The Super Eagles' journey in AFCON 2025 concluded with a bronze medal victory over Egypt, winning 4-2 on penalties. Despite not reaching the final, the team's performance has sparked discussions about Coach Chelle's future with the national team.
Player Support and Contract Considerations
In related developments, Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has publicly advocated for Coach Chelle's retention. Speaking to journalists before the third-place match against Egypt, the midfielder emphasized that Chelle has brought stability to the team. Ndidi argued that failing to reach the AFCON final should not be grounds for dismissing the coach, highlighting his contributions to the squad's development.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) faces decisions regarding Chelle's contract, which reportedly included specific performance targets. The public sightings and viral moments involving the coach have added a human dimension to these administrative considerations, showcasing the intersection of sports management and public engagement in Nigerian football culture.
