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Religion, politics, and football-the trinity of unity and occasional conflict globally. The latter holds even greater power, as it speaks no language yet is understood by all-even those who insist on calling it soccer.
In Nigeria, football is a religion, uniting the nation like nothing else. And no team in the land compares to the Super Eagles. Three-time African champions with six FIFA World Cup appearances-three of which saw them soar into the Round of 16.
To many, it always feels like it’s the team’s birthright to qualify for the global showpiece since their debut in 1994. But the reality is that nothing-neither in football nor in life-is ever guaranteed.
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The team’s failure to qualify for the last Mundial in Qatar still hurts like a sprained ankle, yet the prospect of another omission looms larger than the night sky.
Grouped with Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, one might expect an easy path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Yet, to the bewilderment of Nigerians, the Super Eagles have hardly looked like a team worthy of the grand stage.
A qualification campaign that began with a 1-1 draw against Lesotho signaled that what should have been a stroll might instead require a forklift to steady the Eagles’ wings. Four matches in, they remain winless-the latest setback, a 2-1 defeat to the Squirrels of Benin.
The team’s finger-nail biting performances forced the Nigeria Football Federation, led by Ibrahim Gusau, into a series of coaching gymnastics – chopping and changing managers. The latest to take the hot seat: French-Ivorian-Malian coach Éric Sékou Chelle.
His appointment as Head Coach of the Super Eagles was confirmed on 7 January 2025, by the Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation, following a recommendation from its Technical and Development Sub-Committee.
The goal for him is simple yet daunting—guide the Super Eagles to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.
Chelle became a favourite on Twitter (X) for his in-game reactions during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final in Côte d’Ivoire, where his Malian side narrowly missed out on a semi-final spot. They lost to the hosts and eventual champions, Côte d’Ivoire, 2-1 after extra time, having led 1-0 until the final minute of regulation.
In fairness to him, despite the memes, Chelle carries the demeanor of someone who can handle pressure—evident in his decision to take on the job, given the precarious position the team finds itself in. That pressure has already begun, highlighted by the reactions which trailed the release of his 23-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
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As expected, his decision to omit and include certain players headlines conversations. One notable omission is Cyril Dessers, despite his strong form with Scottish Premiership side Rangers, where he’s scored double figures – yet still overlooked.
For others, it’s a delight to see a first call-up for one of the most consistent and outstanding goalkeepers in the Nigerian Premier Football League, Kayode Bankole. Additionally, the inclusion of centre-forward Tolu Arokodare, who is excelling at Belgian club Genk, has been met with excitement.
The reality, however, is that every official team list will continually be scrutinised by both professionals and fans alike. Ultimately, the responsibility falls on Éric Sékou Chelle and his coaching staff.
Nigeria is a football-crazy nation, and only victory is truly embraced. A world cup ticket, or the exit door.
Bet on the most markets in Nigeria for the Super Eagles’ upcoming matches right here!
