Nigeria Appoints Former Mali As Super Eagles Head Coach

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Mr. Éric Sékou Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles.

The NFF Executive Committee on Tuesday approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee, which had earlier nominated Chelle for the position. The Sub-Committee, during its meeting on Thursday, in Abuja, deemed Chelle the most suitable candidate to lead the Super Eagles.  

Chelle, a former Mali international with five caps, has a proven track record in coaching. He has previously managed clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran.

Most recently, he served as the head coach of the Mali national team since 2022.  

At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, Chelle guided Mali to a strong performance. They narrowly missed out on the semi-finals, losing 2-1 to the hosts in extra time after holding a lead until the final minute of regulation. Notably, Mali defeated South Africa 2-0 in their opening Group E match and ultimately topped their group with five points from three games.

During his playing career, Chelle represented French clubs such as Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.  

Chelle’s appointment is effective immediately. His primary objective will be to lead the Super Eagles in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The next two rounds of World Cup qualifiers (Matchdays 5 & 6) are scheduled for March.