Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has sent a powerful message to Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle, urging him to stand firm as the nation prepares for another push for continental glory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Footynaija.com reports.
Having narrowly missed out on lifting the trophy in the last edition hosted by Cote D’Ivoire, the Super Eagles will touch down Morocco in a few days, looking to go one better this time around.
Speaking on his Oliseh Insight Podcast, the former Nigeria international expressed genuine belief in the team’s chances in Morocco, insisting the Super Eagles have what it takes to make a deep run in the tournament.
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“I am very optimistic that the Super Eagles can do well at this tournament,” Oliseh said, backing the current squad to rise above the pressure that comes with representing one of Africa’s elite football nations.
Sunday Oliseh’s message to Eric Chelle
Nigeria will compete in Group C, where they will pit their wits against the likes of Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda.
It’s a group that looks manageable at first glance but carries enough hidden danger to punish any moment of complacency.
The Super Eagles begin their campaign on 23 December against Tanzania, before wrapping up the group stage in what could be a decisive clash with Uganda.
But beyond tactics and preparations, Oliseh believes Chelle must prepare himself for a different kind of battle, one that plays out off the pitch.
“The first thing the manager has to do is that he has to grow a little bit stubborn.
“He has to grow stubborn because it is no secret that people from outside will try to influence who plays and who doesn’t play.
“I think he has to grow stubborn and stand his ground and show personality that he is responsible.”
The Super Eagles carry huge expectations into AFCON 2025, especially with the quality of players available for selection but without strong leadership from the top, the journey becomes twice as difficult.
Oliseh’s words serve as both advice and warning: if Eric Chelle blocks out the noise, controls his dressing room, and sticks to merit-based selections, Nigeria’s chances of challenging for the AFCON title immediately improve.
