‘I’m a Lion’ – Eric Chelle makes huge claim about Super Eagles coaching role

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‘I’m a Lion’ – Eric Chelle makes huge claim about Super Eagles coaching role

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shared his goal for the Nigerian National team ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup, Afrik Foot reports.

The Franco-Malian tactician, after the heartbreak of the World Cup failure and the AFCON 2025 bronze medal, still harbours big dreams for the three-time African Champions.

Nigeria will play the Unity Cup later this month before taking on Poland and Portugal next month.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle alongside Victor Ikpeba

Eric Chelle highlights plans for Super Eagles

The former RC Lens defender, despite not losing a game in 90 minutes since taking over the Green and Whites, believes there’s still more to come from him.

“When I took the job my goal was to win and I think the next goal is to win,” the 48-year-old said in quotes revealed by Brila.

“Definitely if you are the coach of the Super Eagles you know you have to win there is a lot of pressure, but, I am still ready to do my job and try to give the best for this country.

“I am a lion and fighter I was like that when I took the job and I remain the same.”

Eric Chelle, coach of Nigeria Super Eagles, looks on in a friendly football match between Russia and Nigeria

Ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup, Chelle confirmed he’ll be showcasing newer Nigerian players, although some will be disappointed, since not everyone can play.

“Definitely, Nigeria is blessed with a lot of talent, but not all will play at the same time, so I try my best to give opportunities to those who can fit into our philosophy and vision, which is to become the best.

“At this time, this is difficult because for these games against Poland and Portugal, players are on holiday.

“They have spent a year playing, some have minor injuries, and they need to rest, so it will depend on how they feel.

“I have a few days to think about everything. Now, I prefer to stay focused on the Unity Cup and work during these few days for the games in June,” the former Mali coach concluded.

Nigeria will kick off their Unity Cup campaign on the 26th of June against Zimbabwe.

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Adefolahan Guerreiro

Sports Writer

Adefolahan is a CAF-Accredited sports journalist and football writer whose work spans outlets like Soccernet Nigeria, Afrik Foot, Pure Football UK, and Royalsportz.

With a sharp eye for detail and a background in college sports, he tells the African football story with depth, flair, and global perspective.

Fluent in English, Spanish, and German, he brings a cross-cultural voice to his coverage, blending insight with accessibility for readers around the world.