Segun Odegbami Backs Eric Chelle to Restore Nigeria’s Football Glory

Nigerian football icon Segun Odegbami has thrown his support behind Eric Chelle, the newly appointed head coach of the Super Eagles, after initially questioning the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) decision to hire him.

From Doubts to Confidence

Chelle, a 47-year-old Franco-Malian, became the first non-Nigerian African coach to lead the Super Eagles when he was appointed in January. His selection raised eyebrows, particularly given his modest managerial background before guiding Mali to the 2023 AFCON quarterfinals. However, after meeting Chelle alongside NFF Secretary-General Muhammed Sanusi and National Sports Commission Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko, Odegbami was convinced of the coach’s detailed plan for the national team.

Odegbami compared Chelle's strategy to that of Clemens Westerhof, the Dutch coach who is credited with bringing Nigeria to its heyday in the 1990s, in his Complete Sports column. He emphasized Chelle's dedication to tactical discipline, scouting, and creating a team that plays with strength, speed, and confidence.

Chelle’s Tactical Blueprint

“He has been gathering data on all great Nigerian players at home and abroad,” Odegbami wrote. “He watches each of them at least five times in different matches to analyze their strengths and weaknesses.”

Chelle’s philosophy revolves around pressing high when out of possession and executing fast, decisive counterattacks, a hallmark of Nigeria’s most successful teams.

“These are tactics taken straight from the playbook of Father Tiko and Clemens Westerhof,” Odegbami added. “He reminded me of how Nigerian football was at its best—quick forwards, swift counterattacks, and explosive play down the flanks.”

Must-Win World Cup Qualifiers Await

Chelle faces an immediate test, as Nigeria prepares for two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Super Eagles travel to Kigali to face Rwanda on March 21 before hosting Zimbabwe on March 25.

Currently sitting fifth in Group C, Nigeria trails Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho. With only the top team earning automatic qualification, Chelle must deliver results quickly to keep Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive.