Chelle warns against complacency as Super Eagles march on

Chelle warns against complacency as Super Eagles march on

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has insisted that progress at the Africa Cup of Nations will be driven by discipline and humility, stressing that he does not underrate any opponent despite his team’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16.

The result secured Nigeria’s place in the quarter-finals, but Chelle was quick to shift attention to the demands ahead rather than the margin of the win.

The coach praised his players’ execution and collective focus, noting that knockout football leaves no room for complacency.

He emphasized that the Super Eagles prepared with respect for Mozambique and approached the match with clarity of purpose, an attitude he believes must remain unchanged as the tournament deepens.

Chelle also underlined that Nigeria is focused on growth, one step at a time, describing the team as being in a phase of steady development rather than finished excellence.

According to him, each match is an opportunity to improve understanding, sharpen decision-making, and strengthen cohesion, especially against increasingly difficult opposition.

Leadership within the squad echoed the coach’s message. Captain Wilfred Ndidi reinforced the importance of staying grounded, pointing out that every team left in the competition has earned its place and must be treated with full respect. The emphasis, he said, remains on concentration, work rate, and collective responsibility.

With momentum building and confidence rising, Chelle maintained that the real test begins now.

The Super Eagles, he said, will continue to measure success not by scorelines alone, but by how well they maintain focus, respect the challenge before them, and keep progressing on a clear path of growth toward the latter stages of the tournament.