The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will decide the future of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, as concerns mount over the team’s lackluster performance in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The statement comes after a string of disappointing results, including a recent 1-1 draw against a lower-ranked opponent, which has left Nigeria’s qualification hopes hanging in the balance.
The Super Eagles, a powerhouse in African football, have struggled to find form under Chelle’s leadership, sparking widespread criticism from fans and analysts.
With only two wins in their last five qualifier matches, Nigeria sits precariously in their group, raising fears of missing the World Cup for the first time since 2006.
The team’s lack of cohesion, tactical clarity, and goal-scoring prowess has fueled calls for a change in management.
In a press briefing on Monday, NSC Chairman, Dr. Bukola Olopade, emphasized that the NFF, as the governing body for football in Nigeria, holds the authority to evaluate Chelle’s tenure.
“The NFF is responsible for the technical direction of the Super Eagles. They will review the situation and make decisions in the best interest of Nigerian football,” Olopade said, sidestepping questions about whether the NSC would push for Chelle’s sack.
Chelle, a former Malian international and relatively unknown figure in Nigerian football before his appointment in 2024, has faced scrutiny for his conservative tactics and player selections.
Critics argue that his lack of experience at the international level has hindered the team’s ability to compete against stronger opponents. Supporters of the coach, however, point to injuries to key players and a challenging fixture list as mitigating factors.
The NFF, led by President Ibrahim Gusau, is reportedly under pressure to act swiftly, with Nigeria’s next qualifier against a top-seeded African side looming in November.
Sources within the federation indicate that a board meeting is scheduled for next week to discuss Chelle’s position, with some members advocating for a return to a local coach to restore the team’s identity.
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