Super Eagles head coach, Éric Chelle, has declared his ambition to lead Nigeria to victory at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations following the team’s impressive outing at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.

 

 

Chelle guided the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the tournament, where Nigeria stood out for their exciting attacking football. The three-time African champions scored the highest number of goals at the competition with 14 and did not concede from open play in the knockout stages.

 

 

 

 

The next Africa Cup of Nations will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, and Chelle is confident the Super Eagles will return stronger and ready to lift the trophy.

 

Speaking after the tournament, the coach reflected on the emotional journey of the campaign and his determination to go one step further next time.

 

 

 

“It’s pride. It’s a relief. I went to see my mom and dad and told them I was coming back with the AFCON trophy. Mom, Dad, sorry, I’m only coming back with third place, but that’s already exceptional for me,” Chelle said.

 

 

 

He also praised the organisation of the tournament and the bond within his squad.

 

 

 

“Thank you to this country for organising this AFCON so well. I had a lot of fun with my team. It was great. Thank you. It was extraordinary,” he added.

 

 

 

Looking ahead, Chelle left no doubt about his target for the future.

 

 

 

“We’ll meet again in two years, and God willing, I’ll bring that trophy home.