‘Chelle made a mistake’ - Super Eagles legend blames Nigeria's head coach selection in Zimbabwe draw
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Super Eagles legend blames Chelle's selection || X

‘Chelle made a mistake’ - Super Eagles legend blames Nigeria's head coach selection in Zimbabwe draw

Stephen Oladehinde 13:04 - 29.03.2025

Nigeria's head coach, Eric Chelle, was criticised by former Super Eagles star Abbey Peterson George for the team's draw against Zimbabwe on Tuesday.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria find themselves in a difficult situation as their hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup fades away.

Chelle debuted for the Super Eagles in Kigali, where he helped Nigeria secure a 2-0 victory against Rwanda. 

However, he was unable to repeat this success at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, as his team played a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe

Abbey George blames Chelle

George has faulted Nigerian head coach Eric Chelle for the Super Eagles' draw against Zimbabwe on Tuesday.

In an interview with Brila, he said, “I believe Chelle made a mistake with the selection. He tried to accommodate all his best players rather than pick the best team.

Abbey George || Imago
Abbey George || Imago

“There’s no reason to play Ola Aina, who’s been excellent at right-back, at left-back when Onyemaechi is on the bench. The same goes for Lookman and Iwobi, who were played out of position.”

George disagreed with the substitution of Victor Osimhen with Victor Boniface in the 87th minute, as Nigeria was already ahead by a goal and Tolu Arokodare was on the pitch.

“As players on the field, with just five minutes remaining, there’s no need to be pushing forward. They should have held onto the 1-0 lead and secured the three points.

Eric Chelle of the Super Eagles. (Photo Credit: Pooja Media/X)
Eric Chelle of the Super Eagles. (Photo Credit: Pooja Media/X)

“Players need to step up. Experienced players from big European teams should know how to manage a crucial game. They need to show some humility.

“Although it [qualification] is still possible, we must win the next match and hope the other outcomes work in our favour,” George concluded.

The Super Eagles are six points behind South Africa, who currently lead their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying group. The Super Eagles are presently in 4th place.

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