Once a skeptic, Nigerian football legend Segun Odegbami has now become a believer in Eric Chelle’s vision for the Super Eagles. The 46-year-old Franco-Malian coach, whose appointment in January raised eyebrows, has quietly been crafting a blueprint to restore Nigeria’s footballing identity.

Odegbami, a key figure in Nigeria’s 1980 AFCON triumph, initially questioned the Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to hire Chelle—especially after the struggles under Finidi George. Many expected a European coach, not a relatively unknown former Mali international. But after a revealing meeting with Chelle, Odegbami’s doubts have turned into cautious optimism.

In his column for Complete Sports, the former striker compared Chelle’s approach to that of legendary coaches Clemens Westerhof and Father Tiko—men who once defined Nigeria’s golden era. Chelle has meticulously analyzed Nigerian players worldwide, identifying talents based on their strengths and style. His vision? A return to the fast, dynamic, and aggressive football that once made Nigeria formidable.

“He is almost ready,” Odegbami wrote. “His philosophy is clear—press hard when they lose the ball, spread out and attack with confidence, strength, and speed. He wants Nigeria to strike quickly, using direct play and swift counters, just like the great teams of old.”

But with crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe looming, Chelle’s ideas must translate into results—fast. Nigeria sits winless in their group, and the path to 2026 is narrowing. If his tactical revival succeeds, Chelle could etch his name in Nigerian football history. If not, the search for the Super Eagles’ true identity will continue.