Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has admitted that his future with the Super Eagles remains uncertain following their heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Rabat on Wednesday.
The Super Eagles were eliminated after a tense 4–2 penalty shootout loss, following a goalless 120 minutes, leaving the outcome to penalties.
Nigeria will now contest the third-place match against Egypt on Saturday, January 17, aiming to salvage pride after the semi-final disappointment.
Addressing the media after the match, Chelle was candid about the uncertainty surrounding his role.
“NOW, I DON’T KNOW MY FUTURE. I KNOW I AM THE COACH OF NIGERIA. MAYBE IN TWO DAYS, MY PRESIDENT WILL TELL ME IT IS FINISHED, OR MAYBE THAT I HAVE TO CONTINUE. I DON’T KNOW,” HE SAID.
Despite the setback, Chelle praised the squad for their performance throughout the tournament. He urged players to channel their disappointment into motivation for the upcoming clash against Egypt.
“I WILL TRY TO ANALYSE THIS GAME AND THIS AFCON. WE HAVE A LAST GAME AGAINST EGYPT, AND I AM PROUD OF MY PLAYERS BUT DISAPPOINTED FOR THEM BECAUSE, IN REALITY, WE WERE MAYBE THE BEST TEAM IN THIS AFCON. SO WE HAVE TO GO OUT AND RESPOND,” CHELLE ADDED.
The coach also emphasised that discussions regarding his contract should wait until the conclusion of the tournament.
