Eric Chelle discusses dream of winning AFCON and World Cup with Nigeria

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has remained hopeful he will achieve his dream of winning the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup for the West African nation.

The Malian tactician came close to winning the 2025 AFCON in Morocco but the Super Eagles failed at the semifinal stage after losing to the host nation. Nigeria, who had won all their group matches, later faced Egypt to take on bronze medal.

In the third-place playoff fixture, Nigeria secured a win through penalties.

‘I want to win an Africa Cup of Nations’

“I have a structure around me to try to progress as a coach. It’s true that not long ago, I said that my dream was to be the first African at Real Madrid,” Chelle told Histoires de Foot Podcast.

“But that’s not my only dream. I want to win an Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria. If we had gone through, I wanted to qualify for the World Cup with Nigeria, I even wanted to win that World Cup.”

Chelle added: “I have lots of dreams. I’m 48 years old but still young and someone, who wants to realise his dreams.”

Chelle will remain as Eagles head coach

Meanwhile, former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo has urged Chelle to stay committed with Nigeria job.

“Chelle has a job with the Super Eagles, and he must be committed to it considering the fact that he still has a contract with the NFF,” Ekpo told Complete Sports.

“At this point. I was expecting him to consolidate on his achievement with the senior national team at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and not allow himself to be distracted unnecessarily.

“I am very confident that Chelle will remain as Eagles head coach, but he also must show lots of commitment. The 2027 AFCON qualifiers are just around the corner, and it will be ideal for him to show total concentration.”