by Omowumi Omotosho
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially named Malian coach Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.
The appointment, confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday, follows the recommendation made by the NFF’s technical and development sub-committee on January 2. The decision was subsequently ratified by the federation’s executive committee.
Chelle, 47, gained prominence as the head coach of Mali during the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Côte d’Ivoire. Under his leadership, the team advanced to the quarterfinals before a dramatic extra-time loss to the hosts. One of the tournament’s most memorable moments involved Chelle visibly distressed after the defeat, requiring assistance from his staff to recover.
Before taking charge of Mali in 2022, Chelle managed several lower-tier French football clubs, including GS Consolat, FC Martigues, and Boulogne. During his playing career, he represented Mali’s national team in five matches and played for French clubs such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
Chelle’s appointment as the Super Eagles coach takes effect immediately. His primary mission will be to guide Nigeria to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Malian tactician’s first challenge will come in March, as Nigeria faces Rwanda and Zimbabwe in the next round of qualifiers. The Super Eagles currently sit fifth in Group C, winless after four games and in desperate need of a turnaround.
