Eric Chelle: Super Eagles coach jets into Egypt to scout Flying Eagles stars ahead of Unity Cup

Nigeria senior national team coach Eric Chelle is set to arrive in Egypt today, May 5, to observe the Flying Eagles in action as they continue their campaign at the ongoing U20 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports. 

With the Unity Cup in London fast approaching, Chelle is taking proactive steps to identify fresh talent for the Super Eagles.

According to a report by ScoreNigeria, Eric Chelle will land in Cairo to join the coach Aliyu Zubairu-led Flying Eagles, who have made a steady start to the tournament.

The seven-time winners opened their Group B campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Tunisia, before playing out a frustrating goalless draw against Morocco.

Nigeria now sit second in the group, level on four points with Morocco but trailing on number of goals scored.

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Their final group stage clash comes against Kenya’s Rising Stars on Wednesday, May 7, with the equation clear — win big and top the group or at the very least avoid a defeat and reach the knockout stages.

A victory by at least three goals will likely secure top spot and a potentially more favourable quarter-final opponent. Morocco, meanwhile, will take on Tunisia in the other group fixture.

Eric Chelle’s visit further reinforces the importance of the U20 side as a long-standing feeder team for the Super Eagles. Stars like John Mikel Obi, Victor Osimhen, Taye Taiwo, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Samuel Chukwueze all emerged from the U20 ranks before making their mark at senior level.

Two of Nigeria’s standout performers at this tournament — Auwal Ibrahim and Daniel Bameyi — have already earned individual recognition, having been named Most Valuable Players in matches against Tunisia and Morocco, respectively.

The former Mali boss is expected to use the Egypt trip to finalise his provisional squad for the Unity Cup, which kicks off in London from May 27 to 31. Nigeria will face familiar foes Ghana, alongside Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago in what promises to be a spirited mini-tournament. Eric Chelle is also preparing for an international friendly against Russia in June.

The Flying Eagles’ performance against Kenya will not only decide their fate in Egypt but could also shape the future of several young players eyeing promotion to the Super Eagles setup.

Nigeria’s U20 side last lifted the AFCON title ten years ago and will hope Chelle's presence inspires them to reclaim the continental crown.