Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has underlined Nigeria’s determination to kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a victory when they take on Tanzania on Tuesday.
Addressing journalists at the pre-match press conference held earlier today at the Fes Stadium, Chelle expressed satisfaction with the team’s arrival in Morocco and emphasised the importance of making a strong start to the tournament.
The Franco-Malian tactician described the opening fixture as crucial, noting that a positive result would set the tone for Nigeria’s AFCON journey. He made it clear that winning the first game remains the team’s primary objective.
When quizzed about whether his future as Super Eagles coach hinged on lifting the AFCON trophy, Chelle brushed aside the speculation, insisting that such considerations are secondary. According to him, his sole focus is on the competition and getting the best out of his players, with discussions about his future to be held with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at a later time.
Chelle also responded to concerns surrounding the absence of key defenders William Troost-Ekong, Benjamin Fredrick and Ola Aina. The coach played down the impact of their unavailability, expressing full confidence in the players at his disposal and stressing that defensive solidity is a collective responsibility, not just the job of the backline.
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi echoed his coach’s confidence, describing the atmosphere in camp as upbeat and highly motivated. The midfielder labelled the clash with Tanzania as a momentum-builder and revealed that both players and officials are fully focused and ready for the challenge.
Looking ahead to the broader tournament, Ndidi maintained that Nigeria must aim higher after finishing as runners-up at the last AFCON in Ivory Coast. He said the team has learned valuable lessons from that campaign and understands the need to maintain, if not surpass, the standards already set.
The Beşiktaş star added that the squad remains conscious of recent disappointments, including missing out on World Cup qualification, and sees the AFCON as a fresh opportunity to make a strong statement.
The AFCON 2025 Group opener between Nigeria and Tanzania is scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 23.