Nigeria Hires Eric Chelle as First Non-Nigerian African Coach for World Cup Campaign

Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has appointed Eric Chelle as their new head coach, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the first non-Nigerian African to lead the team.

The announcement was made on Monday by the Nigeria Football Federation, following a strong recommendation from its Technical and Development Sub-Committee.

Eric Chelle, a 47-year-old from Mali, first caught the attention of Nigerian fans last year when he guided Mali to a historic victory over Nigeria.

This was Mali’s first win against the Super Eagles in 50 years, achieved during a friendly match in March 2024 where Mali triumphed 2-0.

According to the Federation’s communications director Ademola Olajire, Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately.

His primary objective is to steer the Super Eagles through the upcoming qualifiers and secure a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

How Eric Chelle Got HereBorn in Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle possesses a diverse heritage with citizenship in Mali, Ivory Coast, and France.

His playing career was primarily based in France, featuring stints with clubs like FC Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais. As a player, he also earned five caps for the Malian national team.

Chelle’s coaching resume includes positions at GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. He notably led Mali as head coach starting in 2022, guiding the team to nearly reach the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations.

His team was minutes away from an upset over hosts and eventual champions Ivory Coast before conceding a late equalizer and losing in extra time.

However, his tenure with Mali ended in June 2024 following a disappointing goalless draw with Madagascar in a World Cup qualifier.

His reaction to the team’s elimination became a viral moment, encapsulating the dramatic end to his time with Mali.

Now, as the new manager of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle has a fresh challenge ahead and a chance to make his mark on another prominent African national team.