If We Trust Chelle, He’ll Qualify Us for the Next World Cup – Former Super Eagles Star

Former Nigeria international Abiodun Baruwa has said that if the country continues to place its faith in head coach Eric Chelle, he will secure qualification for the Super Eagles at the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Chelle’s Reign As Super Eagles Coach

Chelle was appointed while the Super Eagles were midway through the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Unfortunately, Chelle was unable to secure the spot as South Africa’s Bafana Bafana finished top of the group.

Although the Super Eagles ended up in second place, they reached the African qualifying playoff but were eliminated on penalties by the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final.

Since taking charge, Chelle has guided the Super Eagles to two Unity Cup victories and a third‑place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

He also steered the team to a 2‑2 draw with Poland before narrowly losing 2‑1 to Portugal in a doubleheader of international friendly matches.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Chelle Reviving Super Eagles’ Glory Days; Gusau’s NFF Leadership On Course — Akwuegbu

Speaking to Proudly Austin, Baruwa, who was part of the Super Eagles squad that reached the 1998 World Cup in France, said: “I think he is a good coach for Nigeria. If we stick with him, trust him, he will qualify us for the next World Cup. I believe in that.”

I Still Need To See More Of Arthur Okonkwo

The tenure of Chelle as Eagles coach has seen the introduction of young talent, including Wrexham first‑choice goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.

The former Arsenal player made his debut for the team in their opening Unity Cup match against Zimbabwe in May, keeping a clean sheet in a 3‑0 victory.

Commenting on Okonkwo’s emergence, Baruwa said he still needs to see more of the young goalkeeper.

“I saw him briefly. Ball handling is okay but I need to see more of him because I never watch him with Wrexham,” he added.

“I saw him for a couple of minutes, he is decent, he is doing what he is supposed to be doing. But, it takes time to build to this level.”

Race For AFCON 2027 Ticket

The Super Eagles will return to action in September when the qualifiers for the 2027 AFCON begin.

To reach the tournament, Chelle and his squad must navigate a group that includes hosts Tanzania, Madagascar, and Guinea‑Bissau.

By James Agberebi