AFCON 2025: Ikpeba backs Chelle over NPFL snub

Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has defended Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle after criticism over his decision to exclude home-based players from Nigeria’s 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Last week, Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen expressed disappointment at Chelle’s choice, arguing that NPFL players deserved inclusion.

Ikpeba, however, insisted that squad selection is the coach’s prerogative and should be based on quality rather than location.

He dismissed the idea that taking NPFL players to AFCON automatically equates to exposure, stressing that the priority must be fielding the best talent available.

‘It is unfair because what we need is our best players. It does not matter if they are domestic or foreign-based. The manager has the right to select whoever he wants for the Super Eagles,’ Ikpeba said, questioning why the debate persists.

Nigeria went on to secure bronze at the tournament, defeating Egypt 4-2 on penalties in the third-place playoff.