The captain of the Super Eagles, William Troost-Ekong, expressed the team’s readiness to collaborate with the new coach, Eric Chelle, as they embark on a new journey under the guidance of the Franco-Malian tactician. The team is set to face Rwanda in their 2026 World Cup qualifying match in Kigali today.
Following his recent appointment in January, Chelle is gearing up to lead the team for the first time against Rwanda, aiming to turn around the team’s challenging 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Chelle and his 23-man squad have undergone three days of training in Rwanda, with Ekong emphasizing the players’ commitment to understanding the coach’s strategies and relieving the pressure on the team.
Ekong stated, “All the boys are enthusiastic and prepared for the task ahead. We acknowledge the pressure, but we see it as a privilege. We are eager to collaborate with the new coach and execute his instructions effectively.”
Nigeria is competing in Group C of the qualifying series and faces the risk of missing out on the 2026 World Cup. The team currently sits in fifth place with three points after four matches, trailing behind leaders Benin Republic by five points.
A victory against Rwanda in Chelle’s debut match as coach could significantly boost the team’s chances of qualification, depending on the outcomes of other matches in the series.
Following the Rwanda match, the Super Eagles will play against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo next Tuesday as part of this qualifying window.