Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has apologized to Nigerians following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and their inability to win the Africa Cup of Nations.
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Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly matches, the Franco-Malian tactician admitted that missing out on the World Cup remains painful for both the team and coaching crew.
“It hurts deeply that we did not qualify for the World Cup,” Chelle said.
According to the Super Eagles coach, qualifying for the Mundial and winning the AFCON were among the major targets set when he took charge of the national team.
“Those were our objectives from the beginning,” he implied.
Despite the disappointment, Chelle stressed that he remains fully committed to improving the Super Eagles for as long as he remains in charge.
“I will continue giving my best to improve the team,” he noted.
The coach also thanked Nigerian supporters for standing behind the team despite recent setbacks.
“The fans have continued supporting us and we appreciate them,” he added.
Chelle further assured supporters that the Super Eagles remain ambitious and determined to keep winning, beginning with the upcoming friendly matches.
“We want to win our friendly games too,” he stressed.
Nigeria continues rebuilding following the disappointment of missing the World Cup, with several new players recently introduced into the squad.
“The team is trying to move forward positively,” many football observers believe.
The Super Eagles remain focused on future competitions as preparations continue for upcoming international fixtures.
“There is still belief that the team can become stronger again,” supporters continue to say.
For Eric Chelle, the message is clear.
The World Cup failure still hurts.
The team must continue improving.
And the ambition to restore pride to Nigerian football remains alive.
Because setbacks in football require accountability, resilience, and determination to rebuild stronger.
