Chelle Challenges Super Eagles to Raise Bar at AFCON 2025

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has urged his squad to better the achievement of the team that reached the Africa Cup of Nations final in Cote d’Ivoire nearly two years ago. Nigeria impressed under former coach Jose Peseiro, beating Cameroon in the last 16, defeating Angola in the quarter-final and surviving South Africa on penalties in the semi-final, before losing to hosts Cote d’Ivoire.

“At the last Cup of Nations, Nigeria set a standard,” Chelle said ahead of the Group C opener against Tanzania in Morocco. “But unfortunately, we couldn't get the trophy… we cannot go below that.”

Nigeria arrive at the 2025 tournament seeking redemption after missing out on qualification for the 2026 World Cup. They finished second behind South Africa and later lost to DR Congo in the African play-off final.

“Everyone is aware of what happened in the qualifying for the World Cup,” Chelle added, describing the competition as “an opportunity which is in our hands.”

Veteran midfielder Wilfred Ndidi will captain the side following William Troost-Ekong’s retirement. “This game is very important for us,” Ndidi said, adding it would “set the momentum.”

Nigeria will also face Tunisia and Uganda as they chase a strong start.