Victoria Mbangwa
Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has shifted his focus to shoring up Nigeria’s defence ahead of crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, acknowledging that a more solid backline is essential if the team is to stand a chance of qualification.
Nigeria currently sits six points behind Group C leaders South Africa, making their upcoming matches must-win encounters. While fans and analysts have highlighted the team’s attacking strength, Chelle has expressed concern over defensive lapses that have cost Nigeria valuable points.
According to a source close to the coach, the Malian-born tactician is prioritizing defensive improvements in the coming months. “We were disappointed with the outcome of the 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe. Nigeria has plenty of good options in attack and midfield, but the defence provides limited support, and that is where the problem lies,” the source told SCORE Nigeria.
Chelle himself has emphasized the importance of winning all remaining games, including the pivotal clash against South Africa in September. ““It’s an obligation for us to win in South Africa, but the most important match for us right now is against Rwanda in Uyo,” he said. “South Africa are a formidable side, but in that game, we cannot afford to let them play.”
The Super Eagles boss is expected to use friendly matches in June to test new defensive options, aiming to find a more stable backline before the high-stakes qualifiers resume.
