Tremendous Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says he’s totally targeted on enhancing his group’s efficiency forward of Sunday’s World Cup playoff closing in opposition to DR Congo, insisting Nigeria’s dramatic extra-time victory over Gabon is proof of a brand new identification constructed on resilience, self-discipline, and perception.
Chelle, who has now overseen Nigeria’s revival after a turbulent qualification collection, refused to be drawn into discussing the pre-match standoff between the gamers and the NFF over unpaid bonuses — a dispute that led to a brief coaching boycott. He maintained that the one precedence now’s sustaining the profitable mentality that carried the group by Thursday night time’s tense 4–1 victory.
In line with him, the group has proven outstanding spirit in latest video games and should proceed to construct on the momentum as they edge nearer to securing Nigeria’s place within the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoffs.
“I don’t need to discuss what occurred earlier than the match,” Chelle stated firmly after the win in Rabat. “What issues now’s that the gamers fought exhausting, confirmed character, and delivered when it counted. My focus is on enhancing our common play and getting ready to win the ultimate on Sunday.”
The Franco-Malian tactician praised the group for responding positively after conceding a late equaliser, describing extra-time as an indication of Nigeria’s “psychological energy and tactical maturity.”
He reserved particular acknowledgement for match-winner Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke, whose objectives sealed the decisive victory, but in addition emphasised teamwork over particular person brilliance.
Chelle insisted that defeating DR Congo would require the next degree of focus and composure, calling the ultimate “one other battle we have to be prepared for.”
He reassured Nigerians that he and his teaching workers have already begun analysing DR Congo’s strengths and weaknesses, promising that the Tremendous Eagles shall be “sharp, aggressive, and disciplined” on Sunday.
“We owe Nigerians pleasure,” Chelle added. “The boys know this, and so they are prepared.”
