Nigerian Coach Eric Chelle Speaks Out on NFF Interference Ahead of World Cup Playoffs

Eric Chelle, the coach of Nigeria's national football team, disclosed interference from NFF officials during the World Cup qualifier. Chelle guided Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before joining MC Oran FC in the Algerian league.

Appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation in January 2025, Chelle has recorded four wins and two draws, placing Nigeria second in their World Cup qualifying group. The team is set to face Benin Republic in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.

Chelle emphasized maintaining a peaceful relationship with the NFF despite recent challenges.