Eric Chelle vows to guide Nigeria to the 2026 World Cup, urging Super Eagles players to adopt a warrior mentality ahead of crucial playoff battles

Eric Chelle, head coach of the Super Eagles, has vowed to guide Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging his players to adopt a “warrior-like mentality” as they prepare for a tense playoff run.

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Speaking on 90 Minutes with Mathematical on Eagle7FM with Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami, the Franco-Malian tactician thanked fans for their unwavering support and promised to deliver qualification.

“Thanks to the fans. Thanks to Nigeria. I am so happy that I have brought back the smiles on their faces,” Chelle said. “We beat Benin because the fans pushed the players.

I ask them to do the same for the playoffs. I plan to do my best for Nigeria, and Inshallah, we will go to the FIFA World Cup.”

Chelle, who took charge of a struggling Nigerian side in January, has overseen a dramatic turnaround. Before his arrival, the Super Eagles had gone winless in four qualifiers, collecting just three points and facing the prospect of another failed campaign.

Under his leadership, Nigeria have won four and drawn two of their last six matches, amassing 14 points from a possible 18.

The highlight came earlier this month in Uyo, when the Eagles crushed Benin Republic 4–0 in a dominant display that rekindled hope across the country.

Despite the resurgence, Nigeria fell short of automatic qualification and must now navigate a continental playoff in November to reach the intercontinental tie scheduled for March.

Their first challenge will be a one-legged showdown with Gabon, with Cameroon or DR Congo potentially awaiting in the final phase.

Chelle’s message to his squad was clear and forceful. “Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is not a war, but it is like a war,” he said. “My players need to have a warrior state of mind. They have to be like sharks.”

His determination resonates deeply with Nigerian fans still haunted by the 2022 heartbreak, when Ghana snatched the World Cup ticket on away goals in Abuja.

Also read: Eric Chelle names key players ahead of Super Eagle’s world cup qualifier against Zimbabwe

With momentum building and Chelle’s leadership drawing praise, optimism is rising that Nigeria could return to football’s grandest stage in 2026—and do so with renewed strength and belief.