NFF appoints Eric Chelle, Mali’s AFCON quarterfinalist coach, to lead Super Eagles to 2026 World Cup qualification

January 08, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has made a landmark decision by appointing Eric Chelle, a Malian coach, as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.

This historic move marks the first time a non-Nigerian African will be at the helm of the Eagles.

According to the NFF, “The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has endorsed the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men national football team, Super Eagles.”

Chelle’s appointment was recommended by the NFF’s technical and development sub-committee on January 2 and subsequently endorsed by the federation’s executive committee. The Malian coach comes with an impressive track record, having led Mali to the quarterfinals of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

Although Mali lost to the hosts in extra time, Chelle’s passion and dedication were evident in his emotional reaction to the defeat. Prior to his stint with Mali, Chelle managed several clubs in the lower tiers of French football, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, and Boulogne.

As a player, he represented the Malian senior men’s national team on five occasions and had spells with various French teams, such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.

Chelle’s appointment takes immediate effect, and he will be tasked with guiding the Super Eagles to a 2026 FIFA World Cup finals berth.

His first challenge will be the upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, with Nigeria currently sitting fifth in Group C of the qualifiers.

The NFF’s decision to appoint Chelle has generated significant interest, and fans will be eager to see how the Malian tactician fares in his new role.

With his wealth of experience and passion for the game, Chelle will undoubtedly be looking to make a positive impact on the Super Eagles.