Respected former Nigerian international Benedict Akwuegbu has called for measured expectations and time for newly appointed Super Eagles head coach Eric Sekou Chelle to prove his worth, emphasizing that the coach’s tenure will ultimately validate the Nigeria Football Federation’s selection decision.
Speaking from London following Chelle’s official unveiling in Abuja, Akwuegbu offered a balanced perspective on the appointment that has sparked widespread debate among Nigerian football enthusiasts. The 47-year-old Malian coach, who notably guided his previous team to victory over Nigeria in a March 2024 friendly match in Morocco, steps into one of football’s most demanding roles amid mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike.
In football, you can’t predict what will happen,” Akwuegbu remarked, urging Nigerians to reserve judgment until seeing Chelle in action. The former striker, nicknamed “Austria Bomber” during his playing days, emphasized the importance of giving the new coach time to adapt to Nigeria’s unique football culture and passionate fanbase.
The appointment comes at a critical juncture for Nigerian football, with the Super Eagles currently struggling in their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign. Chelle inherits a team sitting fifth in their qualifying group, yet to secure a victory and facing mounting pressure to turn their fortunes around.
Akwuegbu, drawing from his extensive experience in international football, acknowledged the significant challenges awaiting Chelle. “Nigerians are passionate about football and expect the Super Eagles to win every match,” he explained, noting the evolution of modern football where traditional power dynamics have shifted. There are no longer minnows in the game. This will put enormous pressure on Chelle, especially as the Super Eagles are struggling in the World Cup qualifiers.”
The timing of Chelle’s appointment is particularly crucial following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. This disappointment has heightened expectations and scrutiny on the new coach, with qualification for the 2026 tournament now a primary objective.
Currently serving as a Sports Consultant to Plateau State Governor Caleb Muftwang, Akwuegbu shared insights from his recent work developing football partnerships between Nigerian and European clubs. His experience in international football cooperation provides valuable context for understanding the challenges and opportunities facing Nigerian football at both domestic and international levels.
The former international’s measured approach to Chelle’s appointment reflects a broader understanding of the complexities involved in managing a national team. His call for patience acknowledges the time needed for any coach to implement their vision and adapt to a new football environment, particularly given Nigeria’s distinct football culture and style of play.
Akwuegbu’s perspective carries significant weight given his ongoing involvement in Nigerian football development through his role with Plateau United and his football academy. His balanced view suggests that while immediate results are important, sustainable success requires time and support from all stakeholders in Nigerian football.
As Chelle begins his tenure, Akwuegbu’s words serve as a reminder that successful international football programs are built on patience, support, and realistic expectations. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the NFF’s bold decision to appoint Chelle will yield the desired results in Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign and beyond.
The football community now watches with keen interest as Chelle takes his first steps in one of African football’s most prestigious and challenging positions, with the ultimate goal of returning the Super Eagles to the global stage at the 2026 World Cup.
