Eric Chelle Appointed As Nigeria U-23 National Team Coach

Eric Chelle Appointed As Nigeria U-23 National Team Coach

By Niyi Busari 

Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle has officially resumed duties as head coach of Nigeria's U-23 national team following a strategic decision reached during a high-level meeting held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the National Sports Commission (NSC) headquarters in Abuja, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The meeting was attended by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, and Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle.

The decision is part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria's football development structure and enhance the country's prospects in upcoming U-23 competitions, including qualification campaigns for major international tournaments.

Nigeria's U-23 national team, popularly known as the Dream Team, holds a distinguished place in African football history. The team remains the first African nation to complete the full set of Olympic medals in men's football, winning gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

The Dream Team achieved its most celebrated success under Dutch coach Jo Bonfrere in 1996, when Nigeria became the first African country to win Olympic football gold. The team recorded a memorable 4-3 victory over Brazil in the semi-finals, secured by Nwankwo Kanu's famous golden goal, before defeating Argentina 3-2 in a dramatic final to claim the historic title.

While the team's fortunes have fluctuated in subsequent U-23 Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, Nigeria has continued to maintain a strong presence in continental competitions and Olympic qualification tournaments.

With Chelle now overseeing the U-23 side, expectations will be high as Nigeria seeks to build on its rich Olympic football legacy and return to the summit of African and global youth football.