Football is about scoring goals – Chelle

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially unveiled Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles at a ceremony held Monday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

At the unveiling, Chelle expressed excitement over the role, stating, “Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style.”

The 47-year-old former Mali international signed a two-year contract, renewable upon successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Chelle becomes the 42nd substantive head coach of the Super Eagles and faces the immediate challenge of reviving their struggling World Cup qualifying campaign.

Nigeria currently sits fifth in Group C with three points from four matches, having not yet won a qualifier. Chelle will also oversee the home-based Super Eagles in a supervisory capacity at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Ivory Coast.

NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle’s ability to deliver, citing his understanding of African football.

“We want someone who understands the mentality of African people. Eric is here, and by the grace of God, he will deliver the results we need. All football stakeholders in Nigeria must rally around Eric and give him the support he needs,” Gusau stated, assuring Nigerians of the NFF’s full support.

He also confirmed that both the NFF and the National Sports Commission (NSC) are committed to providing Chelle with the necessary resources.

Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the NSC, affirmed the government’s support for Chelle’s appointment and praised the transparent recruitment process.

“Football is that one factor that unites all Nigerians and gives them tremendous joy. On our part, we are satisfied with the process leading to Mr Chelle’s appointment and will support the NFF to ensure he has the most conducive atmosphere to do his job,” Dikko said.

He added that the government is fully prepared to provide support to the NFF in their efforts to secure World Cup qualification.

In his first address as Super Eagles coach, Chelle expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, stating that coaching the Super Eagles was a dream come true, as they were his favourite team growing up.

“I want to thank my agent, the NFF, the NSC and indeed all Nigerians for this big opportunity. Coaching the Super Eagles of Nigeria is an amazing job; I do not take this appointment for granted. I am elated and will do my utmost best,” Chelle said.
Stressing his football philosophy, he added, “Football is about scoring goals, so I favour an attacking style.”

Chelle acknowledged the high expectations of Nigerians and pledged to work diligently with his assistants to achieve the goal of World Cup qualification.

With six World Cup qualifying matches remaining, Chelle stressed the importance of player commitment and the urgency of the task.