Beyond Bronze: Ex-Super Eagles Star Says Chelle Deserves Contract Extension

Beyond Bronze: Ex-Super Eagles Star Says Chelle Deserves Contract Extension

By Niyi Busari 

Former Nigeria international Femi Ajilore has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to extend the contract of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, citing the tactician’s positive impact on the team, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Ajilore, a former midfielder who was part of Nigeria’s silver-medal-winning squad at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, praised Chelle for restoring unity, structure and confidence within the Super Eagles setup.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with BSN Sports, Ajilore said the Franco-Malian coach’s influence goes beyond Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 African Nations Cup.

“We should not focus solely on what he won at the 2025 African Nations Cup,” Ajilore said. “It’s not just about finishing third, but about the unity and coordination he brought back to the team.

“Scoring 14 goals in five matches and not losing a single game in regulation time at a tournament like the Nations Cup is something to be proud of. It has been a long time since Nigerians watched the Super Eagles with this level of confidence because of the way they approached each match.”

Ajilore added that Chelle has demonstrated his capacity to take the Super Eagles to greater heights if given the necessary backing and continuity.

“He has shown that he can do wonders with the Super Eagles if given a better opportunity,” he said.

Nigeria secured the bronze medal at the tournament after defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties.