CHAN Disappointment: Nigeria’s Struggles Put Chelle’s World Cup Chances in Doubt

Nigeria’s Super Eagles B team will face Congo in their final group stage match at the ongoing 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) on Tuesday evening.

Head coach Eric Chelle, who leads the home-based Eagles, will be looking to end the tournament on a positive note when they take on Congo at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

However, Nigeria’s chances of progressing have already been dashed following defeats to Senegal (1-0) and Sudan (4-0). The Super Eagles B currently sit bottom of Group D, behind Sudan (4 points), Senegal (4 points), and Congo (2 points). Regardless of Tuesday’s result, Nigeria will exit the competition after this fixture.

As focus shifts toward the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in September, Chelle’s performance at CHAN has sparked debate about his suitability to lead the senior national team to the World Cup. Additionally, Nigeria’s domestic league—the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)—has come under scrutiny, as home-based players continue to struggle in continental competitions.

Ibrahim Lawal, media consultant and football development expert, spoke to Nigeria News 247 on Monday, criticizing the Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to appoint Chelle for CHAN.

“The NFF made a mistake bringing in Chelle to coach the home-based Eagles,” Lawal said. “A local NPFL coach would have been more appropriate for this tournament. Chelle should be focusing on scouting and preparing home-based players for the main Super Eagles as they gear up for World Cup qualification.”

Lawal acknowledged some positives in CHAN, highlighting the hunger and determination of home-based players despite organizational challenges with the tournament itself.

Regarding Chelle’s role in qualifying Nigeria for the 2026 World Cup, Lawal noted that Nigeria’s strong pool of talent—both home and abroad—and their ranking among Africa’s top five teams offer an advantage.

“Statistically, Chelle’s record with the senior team is decent—two wins and a draw in his first three matches. However, the task ahead is tough with only four qualifiers remaining. Tactical discipline will be key if he is to succeed,” Lawal added.

As the Super Eagles prepare for critical World Cup qualifiers against Uganda and South Africa, the spotlight remains on Chelle’s coaching strategies and the state of domestic football development in Nigeria.