Chelle Says Super Eagles Focused on Bigger Goals, Not Individual Awards
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has downplayed his personal recognition as CAF’s Coach of the Group Phase, insisting that Nigeria’s mission at the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 is far greater than individual accolades.
Chelle, who remains unbeaten in regulation time across 13 competitive matches since taking charge in March 2025, has only seen his team lose twice, once in a sudden-death penalty shootout against DR Congo in November’s World Cup qualifier, and in a 1-2 friendly defeat to Egypt in Cairo last month.
Reflecting on his award, Chelle expressed gratitude but redirected the spotlight to his staff and players.
‘I am happy about this recognition. But I would 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,’ he said.
He emphasized that the team’s focus remains firmly on the knockout rounds of AFCON.
‘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,’ Chelle added.
The Super Eagles will face the Mambas of Mozambique on Tuesday in their round of 16 tie in Fes.
