Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has stated clearly that Nigeria’s attention is firmly fixed on their opening match against Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, insisting that the team is fully focused on the tournament in Morocco.
Speaking on Monday during his pre match press conference ahead of the Group C encounter, Eric Chelle stressed that there is no room for distractions as the Super Eagles prepare to kick off their AFCON campaign.
“We are here and we have a game tomorrow and also a tournament, so we don’t have the time to think about what has happened before,” Chelle said.
Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains a recent disappointment, but the former Mali national team coach made it clear that those setbacks are no longer part of the current conversation.
“This is not the moment to talk about the World Cup qualifiers. For now, the most important thing is this tournament,” he added.
Chelle highlighted the importance of starting the competition strongly, describing the opening fixture against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars as a key moment in Nigeria’s AFCON journey.
“For this game, we are very happy to be here,” Chelle said. “It is a big game because it is our first match, and the first game is always very important. We are pleased to be playing here in Fez, and of course, we are working very hard to win this match.”
The Super Eagles coach also made it clear that his concentration remains strictly on football matters, brushing aside questions about his contract and future with the national team.
“Since I started this job, I have always approached it as if it could end after each match,” he said. “Right now, my focus is entirely on the AFCON, my players, and the officials. After the tournament, by God’s grace, when we have reason to smile, we can then talk about my contract. This is not the best time for such questions.”
Nigeria will face Tanzania on Tuesday in Fez as they begin their quest for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title, with Chelle and his players determined to make a positive start to the tournament.
