Super Eagles Eye AFCON Glory as Head Coach Eric Chelle Vows “Revenge
With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) fast approaching, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has set his sights on one goal—bringing the trophy home to Nigeria.
Following Monday’s group-stage draw, Nigeria finds itself in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania, as the team prepares to embark on another quest for continental dominance. The tournament, set to take place in Morocco, will offer the Eagles a chance to redeem themselves after their heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Côte d’Ivoire in the final of the last edition.
Speaking with CAF Media, Chelle, who took charge of the Super Eagles on January 7, made it clear that both he and his squad are eager to right the wrongs of the past.
“I know I’ve got a team that’s out for revenge, and I’m out for revenge too,” the Franco-Malian tactician declared. “We know what this team is capable of, and our goal is clear—to lift the trophy in Morocco.”
Chelle, who previously coached Mali at AFCON 2023 and led them to the quarter-finals before losing to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in extra time, acknowledged the stiff competition ahead but remained confident in his team’s ability.
“Yes, it’s going to be difficult because there are 24 very good teams and some top coaches,” he admitted. “But we are ready.”
The 35th edition of AFCON is set to kick off on December 21, 2025, and will run until January 18, 2026. With Chelle at the helm and a squad hungry for success, Nigeria will be looking to claim their fourth AFCON title and cement their place among Africa’s footballing elite.
