Since 2022, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have experienced a series of coaching changes, each bringing distinct strategies and tactical visions to the national team.
Following a challenging tenure under José Peseiro and a brief stint with Finidi George, the team is now under the guidance of Eric Chelle, who has begun to reshape the squad’s dynamics.
José Peseiro’s Rocky Introduction
When José Peseiro assumed control of the Super Eagles, hopes were elevated, but his initial results failed to meet expectations.
In his opening eight fixtures, Nigeria endured five defeats, including disappointing losses to teams like Guinea-Bissau, Portugal, Algeria, and Mexico.
Despite a remarkable 10-0 victory over São Tomé and Príncipe, inconsistency plagued the 2013 African champions throughout Peseiro’s leadership.
Across 22 matches, his record stood at 11 wins, four draws, and seven losses, with the team netting 42 goals while conceding 26.
He accumulated 37 points in total, averaging 1.68 points per game-a performance that, while not disastrous, fell short given the talent pool featuring stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
Finidi George’s Brief and Uneventful Tenure
Following Peseiro’s departure, former Ajax winger Finidi George stepped in but his time at the helm was fleeting and largely ineffective.
In just two competitive matches, Nigeria drew 1-1 with South Africa and lost 2-1 to Benin Republic.
During this short spell, the team managed only one point, scoring twice and conceding three goals, resulting in the lowest points-per-match ratio of 0.50 among the three coaches.
Ultimately, Finidi’s brief leadership did little to alleviate the team’s struggles during the World Cup qualifiers.
Eric Chelle’s Promising Leadership
Eric Chelle, a former Mali international, initially faced skepticism upon his appointment, but he has since instilled greater discipline and cohesion within the Super Eagles.
Under his stewardship, Nigeria remains unbeaten in eight games, including vital World Cup qualifying victories over Lesotho and Rwanda.
In 11 matches, Chelle has secured six wins, three draws, and only two losses, the latter occurring while managing the Super Eagles B team. His squad has scored 19 goals and conceded 16.
With 21 points earned, Chelle boasts a points-per-match average of 1.91, surpassing both Peseiro’s 1.68 and Finidi’s 0.50.
Reasons for Nigeria to Continue with Eric Chelle
Historically, Nigeria’s national team has grappled with frequent coaching changes, often disrupting progress and forcing constant tactical overhauls.
He holds the best record so far. To clarify: José Peseiro’s debut with the Eagles was disastrous-losing 5 out of 8 games and winning only 3. Chelle remains unbeaten in his first 8 games. Finidi George lost 1 and won 0.
So the difference is clear. ⚽️ https://t.co/1wpPIXPyS7
– Ayomide Oguntimehin (@ayo_oguntimehin) October 14, 2025
Chelle’s tenure signals a potential era of stability, with his results reflecting genuine advancement rather than mere fortune.
With continued support and time, Chelle has the potential to develop this squad into a formidable force capable of securing World Cup qualification and mounting a strong challenge at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
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