Controversy brews as the NFF’s choice sparks doubts ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers

The Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision to appoint Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles has been met with heavy criticism, most notably from former Gombe FA chairman Gara Gombe.

Chelle, a 47-year-old Malian and former international defender, replaces Augustine Eguavoen, who had led Nigeria to a seamless qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). However, the move has drawn ire from sections of the football community, with Gombe branding the decision “unfortunate” and questioning Chelle’s credentials.

Speaking to Brila FM, Gombe expressed his frustration:
“Who is Chelle? What are his antecedents? Since AFCON, we couldn’t secure a reputable coach, and now we settle for a ‘kindergarten coach.’ It’s disappointing, especially given the world-class players Nigeria boasts. This is not the kind of leadership we need at this critical time.”

Chelle’s coaching résumé includes stints at GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran, as well as guiding Mali to the AFCON quarterfinals in 2024. However, Gombe argued that his achievements fall short of what is required to handle a team of Nigeria’s caliber.

He further lamented the exclusion of Eguavoen, a Nigerian football legend who captained the Super Eagles to their 1994 AFCON triumph and managed the team to a third-place finish in 2006. Gombe insisted Eguavoen’s familiarity with the team and proven track record made him the better candidate.

Chelle’s tenure begins amid mounting pressure, as Nigeria sits fifth in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With no wins from four matches, the Super Eagles trail group rivals Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin by four points each.

The Malian tactician’s first challenge will come in March when Nigeria faces Rwanda in a must-win encounter to revive their slim qualification hopes.

As the debate rages on, Chelle’s appointment underscores the high expectations that come with managing one of Africa’s most storied football teams. For now, all eyes are on the new coach to see if he can overcome the odds and guide Nigeria back to the world stage.