Amid rising concerns about the Super Eagles’ disappointing performance in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers, the National Sports Commission (NSC) announced on Monday that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) will decide the future of the team’s coach, Eric Chelle.
Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the NSC, made the statement this morning
“Eric Chelle’s fate rests with the Nigeria Football Federation. After their evaluation, they will make recommendations to us, and then we will either approve, reject, or engage further,” Dikko explained.
He added, “Regarding the World Cup, we are aware of our current position. When we took over, we had only three points from 12 games. However, with Eric Chelle and the NFF working together, we have improved to eight points from the last four matches. Had these results come earlier, we might have been preparing to qualify.”
Dikko clarified that while the NSC has provided support, the commission does not control Nigeria’s fate in the qualifiers.
“Based on the current standings, it’s beyond our control,” he said. “We must win our next two games and hope for favorable outcomes elsewhere. That’s football – someone has to lose for you to qualify. We remain hopeful.”
He also highlighted the commission’s efforts to support the team, including chartering flights, covering hotel expenses, and ensuring bonuses were paid for recent matches.
Struggles in the Campaign
With two games remaining in Group C, Nigeria trails South Africa by six points, with the latter leading the group at 17 points. Nigeria sits third with 11 points, three behind second-placed Benin.
The Super Eagles’ failure to secure a win against South Africa in Bloemfontein on September 9 has severely dented their 2026 World Cup hopes.
An own goal by captain William Troost-Ekong and a late equalizer from Calvin Bassey resulted in a 1-1 draw against Bafana Bafana, leaving Nigeria’s qualification chances hanging by a thread.
Calls for Change
Disappointed by the team’s performance, former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has called for the disbandment of the NFF if Nigeria fails to qualify for the World Cup.
Mikel blamed the football federation’s lack of organization for the team’s struggles, stating on the Obi One Podcast, “If Nigeria doesn’t qualify, the entire NFF board must resign. It’s unacceptable.”
Upcoming Fixtures
Nigeria will face Lesotho on October 8, followed by their final qualifier against Benin on October 11.
Eric Chelle, who is Malian, was appointed head coach of the Super Eagles in January 2025.
