Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle says his players remain fully locked in as Nigeria gears up for a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
Nigeria, aiming for a third consecutive victory in the qualifying series, will face the South Africans in a crucial matchday eight encounter at the Toyota Stadium.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference, Chelle acknowledged the quality of the opposition but stressed that his attention is firmly on his squad.
“I’m focused on my players and my team,” Chelle said. “South Africa has good players, a good coach, and strong technical staff. We know this is a big game. My players are happy to be here, and this is a moment to do a great job.”
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On the Mokoena Controversy
The buildup to the clash has been clouded by an eligibility row involving South African midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who played against Lesotho despite reports he was not eligible. The situation has triggered heated debate, with questions raised over FIFA’s handling of the matter.
Chelle distanced himself from the saga, insisting his job is on the pitch while urging football’s governing body to provide clarity.
“There’s an organisation called FIFA—they need to manage it,” Chelle noted. “My responsibility is my players. We have to think about our game, not the stories around it. But the reality is, FIFA needs to act quickly.”
Osimhen Ruled Out
The Super Eagles will have to do without their talisman Victor Osimhen, who suffered an injury in Nigeria’s narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda on Saturday.
While acknowledging the striker’s importance, Chelle expressed full confidence in his squad’s ability to step up.
“Osimhen is a big star and a very good player,” he said. “But I have a strong squad with great players. They want to play a great game once again, and I trust them completely.”
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