1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner Alloy Agu has shared his thoughts on the appointment of Malian tactician Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.
Chelle was unveiled this week as the 37th head coach and the first non-Nigerian African to manage the Nigerian national team. The ceremony took place in Abuja, courtesy of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
The 47-year-old coach has been tasked with leading Nigeria to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the Super Eagles’ poor start to their qualifying campaign.
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While Chelle's appointment has drawn criticism from some quarters, Agu expressed optimism about the decision, emphasizing the importance of support from the NFF, the players, and the coaching staff to ensure Chelle's success.
Speaking to Complete Sports, Agu said:
“I am delighted that the NFF has appointed a new coach in Eric Chelle to manage the Super Eagles. Many may doubt Chelle, but the NFF must have their reasons for his appointment, and I believe he will succeed with the senior national team if given the free hand to operate.
“Impossible is nothing when it comes to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. With the right attitude from the players and coaches, I feel very optimistic that Nigeria will qualify for the World Cup.
“We just need to show him support and provide information where necessary; that will help the team improve.”
Nigeria currently trail Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, and Lesotho in their qualifying group, with only the group winners guaranteed a ticket to the Mundial.
The next round of qualifiers will take place in March, with the Super Eagles set to face Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe in Uyo, Nigeria.
Wins in both fixtures could revive Nigeria’s qualification hopes and put them back on course for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
