AFCON 2025: Chelle says group-stage coach award boosts Super Eagles’ drive

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has described his selection as Group Phase Coach of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as a major source of motivation for both himself and his players.

Chelle earned the accolade after leading Nigeria to a perfect record in the group stage, with three wins from three matches. Only Algeria matched that feat at AFCON 2025.

The Super Eagles have also been the competition’s most prolific side so far, scoring eight goals—one more than Algeria and Senegal, who have seven each.

The Malian tactician was quick to dedicate the recognition to his backroom staff, praising their tireless efforts behind the scenes.

“I am happy about this recognition, but I would like to give the credit to my backroom staff who work tirelessly to make the team function,” Chelle told thenff.com. “This development is a good motivation for me, the players and the entire squad.”

Read Also: AFCON 2025: Chelle names Osimhen, Nwabali, 25 others in final Super Eagles squad

However, Chelle stressed that the team’s focus remains firmly on the bigger objective.

“This is not why we are here. We are here for something bigger and better. We will not get ahead of ourselves and think we are the best. We will continue to work hard and stay focused for every match as it comes,” he added.

Winger Ademola Lookman was the only Super Eagles player included in the Group Stage Best XI.

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