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French coach Didier Six has given Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle a major boost by naming Nigeria among Africa’s most impressive teams ahead of the next Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, Footynaija reports.
Nigeria have missed out on the last two World Cups, but their recent record at the AFCON gives Chelle reason for optimism as he prepares for another important challenge.
The Super Eagles finished third at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco after reaching the final at the previous tournament in Ivory Coast.
They are also ranked among Africa’s top teams by FIFA, while a long list of Nigerian players continue to compete at leading clubs in Europe.
Victor Osimhen was named African Footballer of the Year in 2023, before Ademola Lookman won the award in 2024.
Other Super Eagles players currently competing in Europe’s top five leagues include Maduka Okoye, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Moses Simon, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Tochukwu Nnadi, Raphael Onyedika, Terem Moffi, Ola Aina, Femi Azeez, Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi.
Six, who has coached several African teams, was asked which sides have impressed him most.
“Senegal, Morocco, Egypt and Nigeria. The level of these teams is improving and African football is progressing in general,” Six told Foot Africa.
His comment is an indicator of the talent available to Chelle as Nigeria prepare for their AFCON qualifying campaign.
The former Mali coach now faces the task of turning that talent into consistent results.
Nigeria cannot afford another poor qualifying campaign, particularly after failing to reach the 2026 World Cup.
Chelle will therefore be under pressure to build on the Super Eagles’ strong AFCON record and guide them towards another appearance at Africa’s biggest international tournament.
