Eric Chelle sat quietly in the stands of a packed NPFL stadium, his eyes scanning the pitch like a man on a mission. The Super Eagles’ new head coach had spent weeks traveling across Europe, meeting established Nigerian internationals, but now, he had turned his attention homeward. Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dream was hanging by a thread, and he was determined to find fresh talent to reignite the team’s campaign.

After an underwhelming start to the qualifiers, with disappointing draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, followed by a shocking loss to Benin Republic, Nigeria found itself languishing in fifth place in Group C. The pressure was immense. The next two matches in March—against Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe in Uyo—were must-win encounters.

Having spoken with key players like Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Moses Simon during his European tour, Chelle knew he needed more than just experience. He needed hunger, passion, and players willing to fight for the green and white jersey. That’s why he was back in Nigeria, watching the NPFL’s finest in action.

Names like Remo Stars’ Sikiru Alimi, Nasarawa United’s Victor Collins, and Niger Tornadoes’ midfield engine Papa Daniel had already been floated for selection. Anas Yusuf, the league’s top scorer with 13 goals, was knocking hard on the national team’s door. Shooting Stars’ defensive trio of Tijani Kabiru, Godwin Odibo, and goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal had also caught his eye.

Chelle and his backroom staff were set to meet with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to finalize their plans. The task ahead was clear: rebuild, reinforce, and rally the Super Eagles back into contention. Failure was not an option.

As the final whistle blew, Chelle took a deep breath. The players had given their all, and soon, he would make his decision. Nigeria’s World Cup hopes rested on his choices, and in a few weeks, the nation would know if the gamble on NPFL talents could turn the tide.