Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has declared that his team is fully prepared for battle against the Amavubi of Rwanda in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations champions will lock horns with Rwanda in Kigali as they seek to revive their World Cup hopes after a disappointing start to the qualification campaign.
Chelle, who was appointed in January, will lead the Super Eagles for the first time in a World Cup qualifier when they take on Adel Amrouche’s side at the Amahoro Stadium.
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The Super Eagles are yet to record a win in the qualifiers after four matches, collecting just three points from a possible 12. Their struggles have mounted pressure on both the players and coaching staff as they aim to turn their fortunes around.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Chelle expressed confidence in his team’s readiness:
“They have a new coach, they want to win, and we also want to win. We are ready,” the 47-year-old Malian tactician stated.
Recognizing Nigeria’s poor qualification campaign so far, Chelle urged his players to stay focused on the upcoming challenge against Rwanda.
“I just want to be with my players, and I want them to focus on this game. Only this game matters now, and after that, we will see about the others. We need to win. The players are training hard, and they want Nigerians to be proud of them.”
Chelle further emphasized the importance of preparation and discipline.
“We have had a lot of meetings and training sessions. I have communicated my plans and how we intend to achieve success. We must work hard, and what we do with and without the ball will be crucial. We are focused on our preparation, and we will be ready. I want to win this game because the country needs this.”
With history against them—Nigeria has never won a competitive match on Rwandan soil—the Super Eagles are determined to break that jinx and get their qualification campaign back on track.
