A New Era Begins in Abuja
On a bright morning at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, history unfolded as Eric Sékou Chelle, the 47-year-old Malian tactician, stood proudly before a crowd of journalists, officials, and fans. As he was unveiled as the 37th head coach of Nigeria’s national team, Chelle made a promise that electrified the room: “We will score goals.”

For a footballing nation yearning for a resurgence, Chelle’s vow struck the perfect chord. “My teams are never lacking in goals, and the Super Eagles will be no exception,” he declared. With these words, he outlined a vision of attacking football that fans have longed for, especially with the array of world-class talent at his disposal.A Perfect Fit for Nigeria’s Firepower

The Super Eagles boast an enviable arsenal of attacking stars, led by Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s second-highest goalscorer with 23 goals in 39 appearances. The Galatasaray striker has been in phenomenal form, tallying 10 goals and four assists in just 13 league games this season.

Ademola Lookman, recently crowned CAF African Footballer of the Year, has also dazzled with his performances for Atalanta. The winger has registered eight goals in 27 international outings since his 2022 debut, cementing his place as a key player in Nigeria’s attack. Alongside Osimhen, Lookman, and the in-form Victor Boniface, Chelle inherits a squad bursting with potential.

Proven Pedigree, Big Expectations
Chelle arrives in Abuja with an impressive résumé. During his tenure with Mali, he oversaw a prolific side that scored over 40 goals in 22 matches, reaching the 2023 AFCON quarterfinals. His tactical nous and attacking mindset helped the Eagles of Mali defeat heavyweights like South Africa and Burkina Faso before falling narrowly to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in extra time.

But this new role presents an even greater challenge: reviving Nigeria’s struggling 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. The Super Eagles currently sit fifth in their group, trailing Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, and Lesotho. With only the group winners earning a ticket to the global stage, Chelle’s task is daunting but not impossible.

Charting the Path to Glory
Beyond the World Cup qualifiers, Chelle will oversee the home-based Super Eagles as they prepare for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). His backroom staff, which includes assistant Hadi Taboubi, physical trainer Thomas Gornourec, and goalkeeper coach Jean Daniel Padovani, will play a crucial role in implementing his philosophy.

For fans and players alike, Chelle’s bold vision has ignited hope. With the perfect blend of talent, ambition, and a proven coach at the helm, the Super Eagles seem poised for a renaissance. As Chelle put it: “We love scoring goals. Together, we’ll make sure the Super Eagles soar higher than ever.”