Since 2022, the Super Eagles of Nigeria have seen a revolving door of head coaches bringing different philosophies and tactical approaches to the team.
José Peseiro had a turbulent reign, followed by Finidi George’s short-lived spell, and now Eric Chelle, who is currently in charge of the team.
Jose Peseiro's Poor Start
When Peseiro took over the Super Eagles, expectations were high. However, the Portuguese tactician’s start was anything but inspiring.
In his first eight matches, Nigeria suffered five defeats—including painful losses to Guinea-Bissau, Portugal, Algeria, and Mexico.
While Peseiro’s side notably thrashed São Tomé and Príncipe 10-0, the 2013 African champions' inconsistency defined his tenure.
Over 22 matches, he managed 11 wins, four draws, and seven losses, with his team scoring 42 goals and conceding 26.
A ‘Short-Time' Spell with Finidi George
Finidi’s time in charge was brief and underwhelming. Taking over after Peseiro’s exit, the former Ajax winger managed just two competitive games, where he drew South Africa 1-1 and suffered a 2-1 defeat to the Benin Republic.
Finidi’s brief spell in charge of the Super Eagles was far from convincing. In just two matches, he failed to secure a win, managing one draw and one defeat, with his team scoring twice and conceding three goals.
That run earned Nigeria only a single point, resulting in a points-per-match ratio of 0.50—the lowest among the three coaches.
It can be concluded that his short tenure ultimately deepened the Super Eagles’ frustrations during the World Cup qualification campaign.
How It's Going With Eric Chelle
Then came a former Mali international whose appointment was initially met with skepticism. Yet, he has quickly transformed the Super Eagles into a more organised side.
Under Chelle, Nigeria are unbeaten in eight matches—a streak that includes crucial World Cup qualifying wins against Lesotho and Rwanda.
Chelle’s Nigeria doesn’t just look better; the results back it up.
In 11 matches, he has recorded six wins, three draws, and just two losses—which came while in charge of the Super Eagles B team. In total, his team scored 19 goals and conceded 16.
Accumulating 21 points gives him a points-per-match ratio of 1.91—the highest among the three coaches, ahead of Peseiro’s 1.68 and Finidi’s 0.50.
Why Nigeria Must Stick With Eric Chelle
Nigeria has long suffered from managerial instability, often firing coaches mid-project and restarting the cycle of experimentation.
He has the best record so far. Let me explain: Jose Peseiro’s first game in charge of the Eagles was a disaster, in 8 games, he lost 5, and won 3. Chelle is yet to lose in his 8 games in charge. Finidi George lost 1 and won a game.
So you see? ♂️ https://t.co/1wpPIXPyS7
— Ayomide Oguntimehin (@ayo_oguntimehin) October 14, 2025
With Chelle, there is a sign for continuity, and his record suggests steady progress, not luck.
Given time, Chelle could mould this group into a side capable of qualifying for the World Cup and competing strongly for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
