Former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has expressed strong belief in Eric Chelle’s ability to turn things around for Nigeria, urging fans to remain hopeful as the team continues its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, Footynaija.com reports.
Following a tough start to the qualifiers, Nigeria currently sits fourth in their group heading into the final four fixtures. But Adepoju believes the signs of improvement under Chelle are already showing. In his words, the coach is “on a stride” and appears to be settling into the role with confidence and focus.
Now serving as La Liga’s ambassador in Nigeria, Adepoju brings rich insight into the game, having previously featured for Real Madrid Castilla and Real Sociedad during his playing career in Spain.
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According to a report by Sports247.ng, Adepoju acknowledged that expectations have dropped among fans, with Nigeria sitting fourth in their qualification group. However, he remains confident that the Super Eagles can rediscover their rhythm before the campaign resumes in September.
“I think Chelle is on a stride. Although, unfortunately, in the qualifiers, he couldn’t win his second match. That makes it a little bit difficult. But, looking at what he has done, I believe he’s trying his best,” Adepoju said.
Nigeria’s next round of matches includes a home fixture against Rwanda and a crucial away tie against South Africa, the group leaders. The qualifiers will conclude in October with trips to Lesotho and a home clash against Benin Republic.
Adepoju, who was part of Nigeria’s golden generation that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and played at the USA ’94 and France ’98 World Cups, noted that Chelle deserves credit for the results he has achieved so far.
“At the moment, I think they have been trying their best. There is hope of improvement from what I’ve seen so far,” Adepoju added.
