Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has insisted his focus remains firmly on Nigeria’s AFCON campaign after being named CAF’s Best Coach of the Group Stage, footynaija.com reports.
The Franco-Malian tactician received the honour on Friday following Nigeria’s flawless run through the opening phase of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles won all three group matches against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda to finish with nine points, scoring eight goals through six different players.
Nigeria arrived at the tournament under pressure after inconsistent performances and two missed chances to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
However, Chelle has transformed the team into one of the most organised and effective sides at the competition, with forward Ademola Lookman also earning a place in CAF’s Group Stage Best XI.
Despite the recognition, Chelle played down the personal award as Nigeria prepare to face Mozambique in the round of 16.
“I am happy about this recognition,” Chelle told the NFF Media. “But I will like to give the credit to my backroom staff who work tirelessly to make the team function. This development is a good motivation for me, the players and the entire squad.
“However, this is not why we are here. We are here for something bigger and better. We will not get ahead of ourselves and think we are the best. We will continue to work hard and stay focused for every match as it comes.”
Nigeria are three-time African champions and reached the final of the last AFCON. Chelle, who guided Mali to the quarter-finals in 2023, is targeting an even stronger finish with the Super Eagles as the knockout stages begin.
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