The appointment of Eric Chelle as the new coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles has sparked mixed reactions, but the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, has passionately defended the decision, emphasizing Chelle’s impressive credentials and track record with the Malian national team.
Chelle, a 47-year-old coach, was brought on board by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to guide the Super Eagles through critical World Cup qualifiers. His selection has faced criticism from some who believe a Nigerian coach should have been chosen for the role. However, Dikko, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, explained why Chelle is the right man for the job.
According to Dikko, Chelle’s deep understanding of African football gives him a unique edge, especially as the Super Eagles prepare to face opponents like Zimbabwe, Rwanda, South Africa, Lesotho, and Benin in the qualifiers. He highlighted that with no time for friendly matches or test games, Nigeria needed a coach with proven experience at the African level to hit the ground running.
Dikko cited Chelle’s remarkable achievements as Mali’s coach, noting his ability to transform the team into a formidable force. Under Chelle, Mali played 22 matches, winning 14, drawing 5, and losing only 3. During his tenure, Mali scored over 40 goals and conceded just 12, showcasing a balanced approach to attack and defense.
Dikko elaborated on Chelle’s tactical strength, pointing out that his teams are known for their scoring prowess and defensive discipline. “He made Mali a very strong team that everybody was afraid to play against. They even defeated Nigeria and South Africa in friendly matches,” Dikko noted.
Chelle’s performance at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) also stood out, where his team’s elimination was attributed to a last-minute error rather than a lack of preparation or strategy. This resilience, Dikko argued, demonstrates Chelle’s ability to bring fresh thinking and adaptability to a team.
Dikko also addressed the criticism surrounding Chelle’s appointment, calling it a natural reaction in a country as passionate about football as Nigeria. “Every Nigerian football fan sees themselves as a coach,” he remarked, acknowledging the diverse opinions about who should lead the Super Eagles.
Despite the initial skepticism, Dikko urged fans to give Chelle a chance to prove his worth. He emphasized the importance of unity and support as the Super Eagles embark on their journey to secure a place in the World Cup, expressing confidence that Chelle’s leadership could propel the team to greater heights.
The choice of Chelle may have divided opinions, but his track record and knowledge of African football suggest he has the tools needed to succeed. As Nigeria prepares for the challenges ahead, all eyes will be on Chelle to deliver results that justify his selection.
