That's all we need - Nigerian icon Aghahowa on how Super Eagles can win World Cup qualifiers

Julius Aghahowa scored 14 goals in 32 matches for the Super Eagles

That's all we need - Nigerian icon Aghahowa on how Super Eagles can win World Cup qualifiers

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:19 - 05.03.2025

Super Eagles legend Julius Aghahowa speaks out on critical strategy for World Cup qualifiers, offering veteran insights to boost Nigeria's qualification hopes.

Nigerian football legend Julius Aghahowa has shared his insights on the critical strategy the Super Eagles need to adopt to revive their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes under new coach Eric Sekou Chelle. 

Aghahowa emphasised the importance of a man-manager who can motivate and instil confidence in the players.

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Currently, Nigeria is struggling in Group C, sitting fifth with no wins in their first four matches. 

However, Aghahowa believes that with the right approach, the Super Eagles can turn their fortunes around, starting with their upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Julius Aghahowa has called for better man-management for the Super Eagles.

Speaking on Brilla FM, Aghahowa stressed the need for a coach who can effectively motivate the team: 

"We need a man-manager to psych the players up. If you have a coach that psyches these players and makes them understand that we need to win, gives them the confidence that we can win the game, that's all we need."

Eric Chelle at the Onikan Stadium.

Aghahowa's comments show the psychological aspect of the game, emphasising that a motivated team with the right mindset can achieve better results. 

His advice comes as Nigeria seeks to reinvigorate their World Cup campaign under Chelle's leadership.

William Troost-Ekong at the AFCON 2023 || Imago

The Super Eagles' next matches are crucial, and Aghahowa's veteran perspective underscores the importance of team morale and leadership in overcoming the challenges ahead. 

With the right motivation and strategy, Nigeria hopes to secure vital wins and improve their standing in the group.

Eric Chelle and Alex Iwobi in Europe. | Instagram

Meanwhile, ahead of the all-important double-headers, new boss Chelle has made public his first Super Eagles squad. 

The Malian has extended invitations to 39 players led by skipper William Troost-Ekong and Ahmed Musa, who is returning to the team after a prolonged hiatus.

Toluwase Arokodare before he netted his 15th of the season.

Also included are Toluwase Arokodare, Igoh Ogbu, and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, who are among the players invited for the first time to the team.

Chelle is expected to name a final 23-man team that will fly to Rwanda before hosting Zimbabwe in the second game in Uyo.