With Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign teetering on the brink, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle struck a defiant tone as he addressed the media in Uyo on Friday. His message was clear: focus solely on Rwanda, and nothing else.
Nigeria’s Slim World Cup Hopes
The Super Eagles currently sit fourth in Group C with seven points, nine adrift of table-toppers South Africa. Saturday’s clash at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium is more than just another qualifier, it is a fixture that could define Nigeria’s road to the World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
Rwanda arrive in Uyo second in the standings with eight points, knowing a positive result would strengthen their own qualification chances.
Chelle: “This game is only about Rwanda”
Asked whether his players truly grasp the enormity of the task ahead, Chelle insisted his squad is locked in on the immediate challenge.
“This game is only about Rwanda. We are ready for our gameplay. We had two training sessions, and I want my players focused only on this game, not on the World Cup yet.
“I want us to think only about our country, about beating the first enemy in this game. After this game, we will see the rest. The only thing that matters is the winning goal.”
Lookman Debate Shut Down
Concerns have lingered over the sharpness of Ademola Lookman, who has yet to feature for Atalanta this season. Chelle, however, refused to entertain doubts about the reigning CAF Player of the Year.
“Can we make a list without the best player in Africa? This is my job. I can’t imagine leaving him out. I trust him. I’m so confident about him. After training, I will still have many choices. That’s my responsibility.”
Tactics and Secrecy
When asked if Nigeria’s tactical approach had become predictable, Chelle responded with a grin.
“If you watch many games, maybe you know my team. But sometimes I change at the last moment, depending on what I see on the pitch and what my players need. That’s football.”
His words suggest he may have a surprise or two in store for Rwanda.
Goal-Scoring Woes
One persistent issue has been Nigeria’s inability to convert chances. Despite dominating possession in previous games, goals have been hard to come by. Facing a Rwandan side renowned for their defensive organisation, the Super Eagles will need sharper finishing to avoid frustration.
Chelle acknowledged the problem but insisted that mentality will make the difference.
“In football, you can have many chances and still not score. Tomorrow, I want my players to take the game in the first 15 minutes with intensity and aggressiveness.
“The most important thing is the state of mind. We need to be strong in our box and decisive in theirs. Tomorrow, we must have a great state of mind.”
Do-or-Die for the Super Eagles
The message from Uyo is unmistakable: Nigeria cannot afford another slip. With South Africa pulling clear at the top and Rwanda breathing down their necks, only victory will keep Chelle’s men alive in the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The spotlight now shifts to Saturday night, where the Super Eagles must transform words into action.
