“This isn’t why we are here” – Chelle not distracted by CAF award as Nigeria face Mozambique

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted Nigeria’s focus remains firmly on the knockout stages of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, despite being named CAF’s Best Coach of the Group Stage, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Franco-Malian was honoured by the Confederation of African Football on Friday after guiding Nigeria through a flawless opening phase of the tournament in Morocco. Chelle’s side won all three group matches, reasserting the Super Eagles as genuine contenders for the continental title.

Nigeria’s nine-point haul with victories over Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda, placed them alongside Algeria as the only teams to record a perfect group-stage campaign. The Super Eagles were also the most prolific attacking side in the group phase, scoring eight goals through six different players, a sign of balance, depth and tactical clarity.

That impressive run came against the backdrop of uncertainty. Nigeria arrived at the AFCON following a difficult period marked by inconsistent performances and two missed opportunities to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Yet under Chelle, the Super Eagles have rediscovered structure, discipline and confidence, blending control with attacking freedom.

The reward was not only progression into the last 16, where Nigeria face Mozambique, but also individual recognition. Ademola Lookman was named in the CAF Group Stage Best XI, while Chelle received the top coaching honour.

But the Super Eagles boss was quick to downplay the significance of the award.

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“I am happy about this recognition,” Chelle told the NFF Media. “But I will like to give the credit to my backroom staff who work tirelessly to make the team function. This development is a good motivation for me, the players and the entire squad.

“However, this is not why we are here. We are here for something bigger and better. We will not get ahead of ourselves and think we are the best. We will continue to work hard and stay focused for every match as it comes.”

Bigger targets ahead of Chelle as Nigeria chase fourth AFCON crown

Chelle’s calm message reflects a coach determined to keep Nigeria grounded as the tournament enters its decisive phase.

The Super Eagles, three-time African champions – winners in 1980, 1994 and 2013 – have not lifted the trophy in over a decade, despite reaching the final at the 2023 AFCON.

Chelle, coaching at his first AFCON with Nigeria, knows what a deep tournament run demands. He previously guided Mali to the quarter-finals at the last edition, and now carries the expectation of pushing Nigeria beyond last year’s near-miss.