For World Cup qualification, the Super Eagles remain winless in four matches, drawing three and losing one, leaving them fifth in their group, Footynaija.com reports.
With only the top two teams securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup, Eric Chelle has a huge task ahead.
The team is struggling in many areas; they are making mistakes in defense, not clicking in midfield, and just not scoring enough goals. And, with six matches left, there is still time to turn things around.
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Here are five key areas Eric Chelle must address to get Nigeria back on course for the 2026 World Cup.
1. Weaknesses in Defence and Set-Piece
The Super Eagles have struggled to deal with quick transitions and aerial duels, conceding sloppy goals due to poor positioning. The partnership of Semi Ajayi and William Troost-Ekong has been inconsistent, while the full-backs often leave space behind when pushing forward.
Set-pieces have also been a weakness. Nigeria conceded from a cleverly worked corner against Benin, showing a lack of organisation in these situations.
With Semi Ajayi not making the cut this time around due to an injury, Chelle must set up a defensive partnership for the must-win encounters later this month. International football is often decided by fine margins, he must ensure the team is more disciplined in defending set pieces.
2. Finding the Right Midfield Balance
A well-structured midfield is the heartbeat of any successful team, but Nigeria has struggled in this department. The Super Eagles are missing a good balance of players who can control the ball, defend, and set up scoring chances.
As a result, they are struggling to move the ball from defence to offence, and their forwards are often left in isolation.
Chelle needs to carefully select players who complement each other’s strengths rather than relying on reputation. The midfield trio must offer defensive cover, control possession, and create goal-scoring opportunities.
3. Maximising Victor Boniface’s Impact
Victor Boniface has been a revelation at club level, but his form has not translated to international football. Despite his obvious talent, he has struggled to make a significant impact for the Super Eagles, scoring one goal and one assist in 11 appearances.
The system used by Nigeria may not be getting the best out of him. Boniface shines at Bayer Leverkusen, thanks to a strong team setup that gets him quality passes from creative players.
Chelle must consider adjusting his tactics to fit Boniface’s playing style, whether by pairing him with another striker or tweaking the teamʼs attacking shape.
4. Game Management
Eric Chelle, who is known for his attacking philosophy, must ensure his tactical approach remains flexible. He has experimented with different formations in the past, including 4-3-1-2, 4-3-3, and 4-4-2.
Given Nigeria’s defensive struggles, a 3-4-3 system could provide better balance, offering more defensive security while maintaining attacking firepower.
5. Mental Toughness and Team Discipline
As we saw during the 2023 AFCON final, the Super Eagles have dropped points from winning positions many times.
This raises concerns about the team’s mental strength and discipline. Chelle needs to get his players to believe in themselves and stay focused for the entire game, not just parts of it.
Discipline is also another factor. Poor decision-making, unnecessary fouls, and lapses in concentration have cost the team. The new coach needs to implement strict training routines and demand accountability from his players. A mentally strong and well-disciplined squad will be essential in the remaining qualifiers.
Eric Chelle has little time to turn things around, but the task is not impossible. Defensive organisation, set-piece discipline, midfield balance, tactical flexibility, and mental strength are all areas that need urgent attention.
The Super Eagles will need to step up in the coming months, and Chelle’s leadership will determine whether they rise to the challenge or fall short once again.
