Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made a solemn promise to Nigerians: his side will fight relentlessly to secure a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This vow comes on the heels of a commanding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic, a performance that has significantly reignited hopes among fans across the nation. Chelle, who is of Malian-French descent, has expressed deep gratitude to the Nigerian supporters, crediting their unwavering energy for the team’s recent resurgence and the return of smiles to their faces.

Upon taking charge earlier this year in January, Chelle inherited a Super Eagles team that was teetering on the brink of disaster. The squad had endured a rocky start to their qualification campaign, going winless in their first four qualifiers with three draws and one defeat, casting a dark cloud over their World Cup aspirations. However, Chelle’s arrival brought about a profound transformation. His calm authority, tactical clarity, and emphasis on player unity have since stabilised the squad, enabling Nigeria to rally impressively. Under his guidance, the team has accumulated 14 points from a possible 18, securing four wins and two draws in their last six games. The highlight of this revival was the emphatic 4-0 win against Benin Republic in Uyo, a statement victory that resonated deeply with the national sentiment.

Despite this remarkable turnaround, the Super Eagles' revival was not enough to seal automatic qualification for the World Cup. Consequently, Nigeria finished among the four best runners-up in Africa, necessitating a more challenging route through the continental playoff rounds. The first hurdle for Chelle’s men is a one-legged semi-final showdown against Gabon. Should they overcome Gabon, a potential blockbuster final clash awaits against either Cameroon or DR Congo. The victor of this African playoff final will then advance to the FIFA Intercontinental Playoffs, a rigorous stage where Nigeria would represent Africa against formidable teams from Asia, South America, Oceania, and North America, all vying for one of the final two World Cup berths.

Currently ranked 45th in the world, Nigeria holds a strong chance of being seeded for the intercontinental phase, which could potentially earn them a bye directly to the final playoff stage. With lower-ranked opponents such as Bolivia and New Caledonia already confirmed for the intercontinental phase, Chelle’s team could find themselves in a favourable position, provided they successfully navigate the demanding African playoffs. The stakes are particularly high for Nigeria, given their painful miss in the 2022 World Cup, when Ghana snatched the ticket in Abuja, a memory that undoubtedly fuels the current squad’s determination.

Chelle’s message to his players is as fierce as his promise to the fans. In an interview with Nigerian legend Segun Odegbami, he conveyed a potent message, urging his squad to adopt a 'warrior state of mind.' “Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is not a war but it is like a war,” Chelle stated, emphasising that his players “need to have a warrior state of mind” and specifically, “They have to be like sharks.” With confidence now restored and the challenges ahead clearer than ever, the Super Eagles’ journey under Eric Chelle hinges on whether his 'sharks' can ultimately finish what he has so passionately started.