Signs of Progress, Pain of Failure: Martins Assesses Chelle's Super Eagles

Signs of Progress, Pain of Failure: Martins Assesses Chelle's Super Eagles

By BSN Sports 

Former Nigeria international Obafemi Martins has praised the progress made by the Super Eagles under head coach Éric Chelle, while admitting that the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains a painful disappointment, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Martins made the remarks while reflecting on Nigeria's recent performances, which have seen the team enjoy an encouraging run of form under the Franco-Malian tactician.

The Super Eagles are unbeaten in their last five matches, recording three victories and two draws while scoring 11 goals. The impressive run has come despite the absence of key attacking stars, including Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, with several new faces seizing their opportunities and strengthening competition within the squad.

One of the highlights of Nigeria's recent resurgence came in the Unity Cup final, where the Super Eagles produced an impressive attacking display to defeat Jamaica National Football Team, scoring three goals and showcasing the team's growing confidence and attacking fluidity.

Despite those positive signs, Martins said the disappointment of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to overshadow recent improvements.

Nigeria's qualification campaign ended in heartbreak after the Super Eagles fell short in the African playoff series. After finishing second in their qualifying group behind South Africa National Football Team, Nigeria advanced to the playoffs, where they defeated Gabon National Football Team 4-1 after extra time in the semi-finals.

However, their World Cup hopes were dashed in the playoff final against DR Congo National Football Team in Rabat, Morocco. The match ended 1-1 after extra time before Nigeria suffered a 4-3 defeat in the penalty shootout, with missed spot-kicks proving costly.

The result condemned the Super Eagles to a second consecutive failure to qualify for the World Cup, a setback Martins says remains difficult to accept.

“I’m so happy for the new invitees because they all gave a good account of themselves, and I think they played quite well. I’m proud of that,” Martins said while reacting to the team's recent performances.

While acknowledging the emergence of new talents and the positive impact of Chelle's leadership, the former striker believes the pain of missing football's biggest tournament will linger for some time.

Nigeria will now look to build on its recent progress under Chelle as attention shifts to upcoming competitions and the long-term development of a squad capable of returning to the global stage.