Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has urged his players to approach their upcoming Unity Cup clash against Zimbabwe with confidence, insisting Nigeria has no reason to fear the Warriors despite their recent frustrating draw in Uyo.
Nigeria are set to face Zimbabwe in the semi-final of the 2026 Unity Cup in London, with Chelle expected to use the competition as part of his wider rebuilding process ahead of future major assignments, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The tournament, which runs from May 26 to May 30, will also feature Jamaica and India, with the Super Eagles entering as defending champions.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Chelle reflected on Nigeria’s previous meeting with Zimbabwe and stressed that the result did not fully reflect the Super Eagles’ dominance.
"We couldn't beat Zimbabwe in Uyo, but if you watch the game again, you will see that we played 1-1, but the reality is that we had ten to fifteen chances to score a goal. Of course, Zimbabwe is a good team, but we don't need to be scared of this team," Chelle told Proudly Austin.
The Franco-Malian tactician admitted Zimbabwe remain a competitive side but maintained that Nigeria must focus more on its own strengths and execution rather than being intimidated by the opposition.
“We come with our strengths and weaknesses, just like this team, and it will be a great game. We cannot predict the outcome of the game. We want to have a great game first. I am just focused on the players because this is the most important thing."
Chelle also explained that the Unity Cup is not solely about lifting silverware, but about assessing players and expanding Nigeria’s options as he continues to reshape the squad.
His recently announced Unity Cup team included several fresh faces, emphasizing his desire to evaluate emerging talent and build depth ahead of key international fixtures.
“This is not a question of winning the trophy; this is about giving them a chance. This is a big team, and the other motivation is that we want to find a player who can bring something new. They have to work.
“If you want to do this kind of job, you have to start one or two years earlier. We have the AFCON qualifiers in September, so we are starting the job. If God says I’m the coach of the national team in September, the job will be good."
The 48-year-old coach also acknowledged football’s unpredictability while emphasizing his ambition to compete strongly in every upcoming fixture.
“We have four games. I want to win these four games, but we don't know if I will lose all four games. In football, when something happens, it can be good or bad.”
Wale Adejumo
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