The Nigeria Football Federation has laid down a clear and ambitious objective for the head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco.
Final or Bust: The Clear Mandate from the NFF
NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, has publicly confirmed the federation's expectation for the upcoming continental championship. The mandate given to Eric Chelle is to get to the AFCON final, Gusau stated in an interview with Eagle FM, as reported by The Nation. This target directly challenges Chelle to replicate Nigeria's performance from the 2023 edition, where the team finished as runners-up after a 2-1 defeat to host nation Cote d'Ivoire.
This high-stakes directive comes despite Chelle's recent failure to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Appointed as permanent manager in January, his primary task was to revive the World Cup qualifying campaign. While he guided the team to the playoffs, they ultimately lost on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Steadfast Support Amid Public Scrutiny
The NFF's decision to retain Chelle and set this final target demonstrates a significant vote of confidence in the Franco-Malian tactician. This move was made despite public calls from many Nigerians for his dismissal following the World Cup qualification disappointment. Chelle, who made history as the first non-Nigerian African to lead the Super Eagles, now faces the ultimate test of his leadership.
President Gusau also used the opportunity to address circulating rumours about interference in team selection. He firmly denied any involvement, stating, Any national coach can be asked privately if me, Ibrahim Gusau as NFF president, has ever called them to say this is a player that must be taken into a team. I have never done that.
Road to Morocco: Preparations and Group Stage
The Super Eagles have commenced their journey towards the tournament. The team’s camp opened in Egypt on Sunday, December 14, 2025. A crucial preparation match against the Pharaohs of Egypt is scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, at the Cairo International Stadium. Following this, the squad will fly to Morocco to finalize their preparations.
Nigeria finds itself in Group C of AFCON 2025, alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. All of Nigeria's group matches will be played in the city of Fez. The fixture schedule is as follows:
- Super Eagles vs Tanzania (Tafia Stars) on December 23.
- Super Eagles vs Tunisia (Carthage Eagles) on December 27.
- Super Eagles vs Uganda (Cranes) on December 30.
In a significant leadership change following the retirement of William Troost-Ekong, coach Eric Chelle has appointed a new captaincy group. Experienced midfielder Wilfred Ndidi will lead the team as captain in Morocco. He will be supported by vice-captains Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and star striker Victor Osimhen.
With the camp now active and 21 players already reported, the stage is set for a high-pressure campaign. All eyes will be on Eric Chelle to see if he can meet the NFF's demanding target and guide the Super Eagles to the pinnacle of African football once more.
