Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has stressed that African football offers no easy fixtures, insisting that every opponent in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers must be treated with full respect and focus.
Chelle made the remarks while reacting to Nigeria’s AFCON qualifying draw, where the Super Eagles were grouped alongside Tanzania, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau.
The coach warned that the group demands maximum concentration from his players, noting that any lapse could prove costly in a tightly contested African football landscape.
Speaking on the challenge posed by the draw, Chelle highlighted the competitiveness of the group and the importance of approaching every match with seriousness.
“Tanzania have already qualified for the AFCON, so this is a group of three. If you play a draw, you can have some problems,” he said to Proudly Austin.
He went on to underline Tanzania’s growing strength on the continent, pointing to their recent performances against top sides as evidence that they cannot be underestimated.
“Tanzania may give us problems, just as they did against Morocco, so this is not a small team,” Chelle added.
The Super Eagles coach also referenced Madagascar’s reputation and past encounters with Nigeria, warning that history offers no comfort heading into new fixtures.
“Madagascar, we know them as a good team because they beat Nigeria in 2019,” he said.
Chelle further cautioned against any complacency regarding Guinea-Bissau, stressing that African football has become increasingly competitive and unpredictable.
“With Guinea-Bissau, you cannot say there is a small team in Africa now,” he stated.
Emphasising the need for consistency and discipline, Chelle insisted that his side must maintain full focus across all matches, regardless of reputation or ranking.
“So you have to be focused on every game and every team. You have to do the job; this is not easy. Which game is easy in football right now?” he said.
Nigeria, three-time African champions, will be expected to progress from the group, but Chelle’s comments reflect a cautious approach as the Super Eagles prepare for what is expected to be a demanding qualification series.
Wale Adejumo
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