AFCON 2025: Chelle Opens Up On Career-Defining Egypt Clash
By TAYO TAIWO (T. T.) OLUWOLE
AFCON 2025: Chelle Says Egypt Win Saved His Coaching Career
SUPER Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that his coaching career was hanging in the balance ahead of Nigeria’s third-place playoff clash against Egypt at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Nigeria eventually secured the bronze medal after edging the Pharaohs 4–2 on penalties following a tense goalless draw at the end of regulation time. The victory not only handed the Super Eagles a place on the podium but also brought significant relief to Chelle and his technical crew after a physically and emotionally draining tournament.
Speaking after the match, Chelle admitted that the pressure surrounding the encounter was enormous, noting that a defeat would have had severe personal and professional consequences for him.
“If we hadn’t finished third at that AFCON, I might have ended my coaching career,” Chelle confessed. “It would have been very hard for me to continue coaching.”
The coach explained that expectations surrounding Nigeria’s campaign were high, particularly after the Super Eagles entered the tournament as one of the favourites. The disappointment of missing out on a place in the final had intensified scrutiny on the team and the coaching staff.
Chelle said the third-place match became more than just a consolation fixture, describing it as a defining moment for his future in the game.
“This match was about pride, belief and survival. We needed to show character and mental strength after the semi-final setback,” he added.
Nigeria’s composure during the penalty shootout proved decisive, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerging as the hero after making two crucial saves. The result restored confidence within the squad and reaffirmed belief in Chelle’s long-term vision for the team.
With the AFCON campaign now concluded, Chelle says the focus has shifted to building on the positives from the tournament as Nigeria prepare for upcoming international assignments, including World Cup qualifiers.
