Chelle Sets Bold Target as Super Eagles Eye AFCON Glory

Nigeria’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, has set an ambitious target for the Super Eagles, declaring the team’s goal is to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

The upcoming 35th edition of the continental showpiece, which kicks off in December, is anticipated to be one of the most competitive ever, featuring powerhouses like reigning champions Ivory Coast, Senegal, Egypt, and hosts Morocco.

Chelle, who led Mali to the quarter-finals in the last tournament, believes his experience, combined with Nigeria’s formidable attacking lineup—including star forwards Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen—can end the Super Eagles’ 12-year wait for the AFCON title.

Speaking to CAFOnline.com, the Franco-Malian tactician stated:

Of course we want to win it. Personally, I want to win AFCON… I think Morocco will be a great tournament, too. The players feel the same. Since March we’ve played every match under pressure…

He acknowledged the intense competition, noting: “But there are big teams: Morocco are favourites, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire… nations in top form.” Chelle believes his side’s resilience is a key asset: “Our strength is that the players have suffered, then found a way through. That can really hurt opponents.”

Crucial World Cup Playoff Test

Before the AFCON adventure, the coach insists the immediate focus is on a tricky World Cup playoff path. Nigeria must first face Gabon on November 13, with the winner advancing to play Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the final Intercontinental playoffs.

Chelle called this a ‘crucial target,' saying:

Before AFCON, there’s a crucial target: the World Cup play-offs. The goal is to win those matches… We’re working in parallel, but our mindset must first be on those immediate tests.

The coach concluded with a determined outlook: “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything. But we proceed with humility, with a smile and a will to work… If we stay serious, motivated and united, nothing is impossible.”