Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has sparked a global football debate by asserting that the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has surpassed European domestic leagues in quality and excitement. Speaking during a press conference on Friday, December 26, 2025, the former Mali manager called for a more professional and serious approach to football administration across the continent.
Chelle argued that while African talent currently matches the best in the world, the next stage of evolution requires the deliberate development of local coaching standards to compete with the elite tactical systems found in Europe and beyond.
The Nigerian strategist’s bold claims come at a critical juncture for his team as they prepare for their high-stakes second Group C fixture this Saturday. A victory for the Super Eagles would not only propel them to the top of the group standings but also guarantee their mathematical qualification for the 2025 AFCON knockout rounds. Chelle expects his offensive unit, led by Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, and the duo of Samuel Chukwueze and Akor Adams, to deliver a more clinical performance in front of goal.
“We have to create our own identity. For me, this AFCON is better than the league in Europe. This is great,” Chelle said during the media briefing in Morocco.
Nigeria enters the match with three points following a 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their opening encounter. While defenders and wingers like Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman provided the decisive strikes in that game, Victor Osimhen faced scrutiny after failing to convert several clear scoring opportunities. Chelle remains confident that his tactical adjustments will unlock the full potential of his attacking superstars, viewing the upcoming clash as the perfect platform to demonstrate Africa’s footballing growth to a global audience.
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