Eric Chelle Meets Augustine Eguavoen As He Takes Over Super Eagles Job, Video
- The Nigerian Football Federation are set for the unveiling of Eric Chelle as the new Super Eagles manager
- NFF announced the former Mali national team coach as the new Eagles boss on social media last week
- NFF technical director and interim coach Augustine Eguavoen met Chelle before the start of the unveiling
The Nigerian Football Federation have unveiled Eric Chelle as the new Super Eagles manager, and the Malian met his predecessor Augustine Eguavoen before the event.
NFF announced Chelle on social media last week after months of searching for a permanent head coach for the senior Nigerian national team since Finidi George resigned.
Source: Getty Images
NFF technical director Eguavoen has been in charge of the team as an interim coach since the start of the September international break after Bruno Labbadia’s appointment failed.
He led the team to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with two draws against Benin Republic and Rwanda, wins over Benin Republic and Libya (including a walkover) and ended the campaign with a loss to Rwanda in Uyo.
Eric Chelle meets Eguavoen
As seen in a video shared on X by Oganla Media, Eguavoen and Chelle met and embraced before the unveiling started. The two coaches were all smiles and exchanged a few words.
Chelle rocked black pants and a white shirt, while Eguavoen wore a traditional gold kaftan dress. The Malian prefers national team track-suits on the touchline.
The video caught the attention of Nigerians, most of whom reacted and wished Eric well.
@Samtol4 replied:
“I wish him success. Eguavoen strategies need to be studied. He is always around, from Rohr to Paseiro and now Eric. He knows how to remain in the system.”
@Lekebiz324 replied:
“He has met the extra tyre that is always ready to step in when he begins to malfunction.”
@jiresjewel replied:
“I wish him well. Because if he succeeds, the Super Eagles will succeed.”
@AyanrinolaOlu1 replied:
“Lovely. This is a great transition.”
Amidst the widespread adverse reactions from Nigerians, a few fans backed the manager to succeed, particularly with the team at risk of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and it could be detrimental for the current group if they missed the coming edition in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Pinnick breaks silence over Chelle’s hiring
Legit.ng reported that former NFF President Amaju Pinnick broke his silence over Eric Chelle's hiring as Super Eagles boss amid adverse reactions from Nigerians.
Pinnick expressed shock and hit back at the claims that the 47-year-old is not competent enough to lead the Nigerian national team, defending the Ivorian-born coach with his statistics in charge of the Mali national team.
Ikpeba appeals to Nigerians
Legit.ng reported that Victor Ikpeba appealed to Nigerians to let go of their negativity towards Eric Chelle and back the new manager in charge of the national team.
The NFF committee member also clarified the issue of the CHAN Eagles claiming Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu will continue under Chelle's supervision.
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Source: Legit.ng
