CAN 2025 - Nigeria: Wilfred Ndidi calls on the federation to back Éric Chelle

17.01.26 AP AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

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The captain of Nigeria's Super Eagles, Wilfred Ndidi, has made a passionate appeal to the Nigerian Football Federation in support of head coach Éric Chelle.

On the eve of the third-place match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations between Nigeria and Egypt, Wilfred Ndidi delivered a powerful message during a press conference. The defensive midfielder made it clear that he stands firmly behind his coach, Éric Chelle.

"Our coach is extremely demanding. I've never seen a coach as demanding as he is. Not just on the pitch, but off it too—even when it comes to our meals. He's a great guy who maintains a strong relationship with his players, but when it's time to work, he doesn't joke around. We need continuity with this coach; we shouldn't even think about replacing him," Ndidi stated, urging the federation to stay the course despite the disappointment of their semi-final defeat on penalties to Morocco.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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