Ex-international urges NFF to keep Super Eagles coach Chelle despite AFCON loss

Former Super Eagles player Jide Olugbodi is urging the Nigeria Football Federation to retain head coach Eric Chelle after the team's AFCON 2025 semi-final exit. The Super Eagles lost 4-2 on penalties to host nation Morocco in Wednesday night's semi-final, ending their run in the tournament despite earning widespread praise for their performances. Chelle, a Malian former international, has reportedly attracted interest from several other African national teams since taking charge. Olugbodi told AIT that keeping Chelle is crucial for the team's future. 'From competent sources, there is interest in him from a number of African countries,' Olugbodi said. 'We have seen what he has done with the Super Eagles in less than a year now. The future of the team is bright under him.' The coach has been credited with transforming the team's fortunes since his appointment, with the Super Eagles reaching the semi-finals and showcasing improved form throughout the competition. Despite the penalty shootout loss to Morocco, the team's performance has generated optimism about the direction of Nigerian football under Chelle's leadership.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/15/afcon-2025-nff-must-keep-eric-chelle-ex-international/