Tag Archives: Super Eagles

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Positive Injury Update for Victor Osimhen Ahead of Nigeria Squad Announcement

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Encouraging News for Eric Chelle

Newly appointed Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has received a boost regarding star striker Victor Osimhen’s fitness ahead of his first squad announcement.

Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, was forced off in the closing minutes of Monday’s highly anticipated Intercontinental Derby against Fenerbahçe. The match ended in a goalless draw, and he was replaced in the 89th minute by Kaan Ayhan, sparking concerns over a potential injury setback.

Medical Tests Rule Out Major Injury

Initial fears suggested that the former African Footballer of the Year had suffered a serious injury, but reports from Turkish media outlet habersarikirmizi.com have confirmed otherwise. An MRI scan conducted by Galatasaray’s medical team revealed that Osimhen is in good condition and has not sustained a major injury.

This update will be a relief for both club and country, as the 26-year-old remains a key figure for the Super Eagles ahead of their upcoming international fixtures.

Osimhen Absent from Training Amid Cup Match Uncertainty

Despite the positive medical reports, Osimhen was noticeably absent from training images shared by Galatasaray on their official website and social media platforms on Tuesday, February 25.

The Turkish giants have begun preparations for their Ziraat Turkish Cup clash against Tümosan Konyaspor, with training sessions taking place at Florya Metin Oktay Facilities. However, it remains uncertain whether Osimhen will be included in Thursday’s squad or given time to recover.

Notably, the striker has yet to feature for Galatasaray in the Turkish Cup, having missed previous rounds against Basaksehir and Boluspor.

Key Player for Club and Country

Osimhen’s fitness will be closely monitored as he remains a crucial player for both Galatasaray’s league and cup ambitions, as well as Nigeria’s plans under Chelle. With the Super Eagles’ World Cup qualifiers approaching, his availability could significantly impact the team’s attacking options.

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Jacob Murphy Declines Nigeria Call-Up, Keeps International Options Open

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Newcastle Winger Rejects Super Eagles Approach

Newcastle United winger Jacob Murphy has opted against switching his international allegiance to Nigeria, despite interest from the Super Eagles, according to Craig Hope of the Daily Mail.

The 29-year-old, who has represented England at various youth levels, remains eligible to play for Nigeria through his father and the Republic of Ireland through his mother. However, he has decided to decline Nigeria’s approach and keep his options open for future international tournaments.

Nigeria’s Interest in Murphy

Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, reportedly reached out to Murphy in an attempt to recruit him for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Super Eagles have been keen to bolster their squad with experienced players performing well at club level.

Murphy has enjoyed a strong season with Newcastle, scoring five goals and providing nine assists across all competitions. His form has made him an attractive prospect for Nigeria, but he has chosen not to commit at this stage.

Focus on Club and Potential England or Ireland Call-Up

Instead of joining Nigeria’s squad, Murphy will continue to focus on his performances for Newcastle. He is keeping the possibility open for a call-up to England or, more likely, the Republic of Ireland, which could provide him with an opportunity to compete in future international tournaments.

“That would give Murphy the chance to play at next year’s World Cup, but we understand he will not be joining the Nigeria squad any time soon,” Hope reported.

Eddie Howe Praises Murphy’s Contribution

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has highlighted Murphy’s impact this season, particularly in supporting star striker Alexander Isak.

“(Murphy) has been very, very important and probably more than people realize,” Howe said. “Isak probably owes him the majority of his goals with his crossing ability, which has always been very strong.”

With his strong club form and international future still undecided, Murphy remains a player to watch as Newcastle push for success in the Premier League.

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Ademola Lookman sets for Atalanta return after scary injury

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Atalanta and Super Eagles Forward Set for Swift Comeback

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has resumed light training with Atalanta after suffering a knee injury last week, offering a significant boost to his team ahead of crucial fixtures, Soccernet.ng reports.

Injury Blow Before Barcelona Clash

Lookman was ruled out of action just hours before Atalanta’s highly anticipated UEFA Champions League encounter against Barcelona. The Nigerian forward was expected to play a pivotal role for La Dea in that match, but his absence was confirmed after he sustained a knee injury during training. Knee injuries are often delicate, sparking fears that the 27-year-old could face a prolonged spell on the sidelines.

Positive Injury Update

However, according to Atalanta BC News, Lookman has now returned to light training, signaling a quicker-than-expected recovery. If his rehabilitation continues as planned, the forward could be back in action within the next two weeks.

Lookman has been an influential figure for Atalanta this season, registering 14 goals and seven assists in 26 appearances across all competitions. His contributions make him the team’s second-highest goalscorer, trailing only Mateo Retegui, who boasts 22 goal involvements.

Timely Boost for Atalanta

Lookman’s return comes at a crucial time for Atalanta, who face key matches in both domestic and European competitions. La Dea will take on Club Brugge in a Champions League double-header over the next two weeks, fixtures that could determine their European aspirations.

In Serie A, Atalanta is striving to regain consistency, having lost ground in the title race. Currently sitting third in the league standings, they are six points behind Napoli. Lookman’s comeback could provide the attacking spark they need to close the gap and mount a stronger challenge for the Scudetto.

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Former Super Eagles Star Taye Taiwo Inducted Into Marseille’s Hall Of Fame

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Former Super Eagles defender Taye Taiwo has been honored with induction into Olympique Marseille’s prestigious Club of Legends. Recognized as one of Nigeria’s greatest left-backs, Taiwo earned 54 caps for the Super Eagles between 2004 and 2011, scoring five goals during his international career.  

The announcement was made by Marseille on their official social media handle, celebrating Taiwo’s contributions to the club. “Taye Taiwo is in the house tonight as the former Olympien and Super Eagle is inducted into the #OMLegends club ✨,” the club tweeted on February 2, 2025.

Taiwo enjoyed a stellar club career, featuring for top European teams, including AC Milan and Marseille, as well as a stint in the English Premier League with Queens Park Rangers (QPR). Marseille, however, remained his most significant club, where he spent six years, making 271 appearances, scoring 25 goals, and providing 23 assists.

During his time with the French giants, he won Ligue 1, the League Cup, and the French Super Cup before moving to AC Milan in 2011.

Since retiring in 2019, Taiwo has resided in France. His induction into Marseille’s Club of Legends cements his legacy as one of the club’s most impactful players, placing him alongside other Marseille greats like Samir Nasri, Mamadou Niang, and Paulo Cezar.

Taiwo is also one of only four Nigerians to have played for Marseille, joining the ranks of Wilson Oruma, Joseph Yobo, and Victor Agali.

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Eric Chelle Arrives England begins Super Eagles rebuild

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Meeting with Nigerian Internationals
New Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has landed in England as he begins his mission to introduce himself to Nigeria’s Premier League-based players. With crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers approaching, Chelle aims to outline his vision and strategy to key squad members.

During his visit, the Franco-Malian coach is expected to hold discussions with several Nigerian internationals, including Fulham duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, as well as Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi. He may also check in on Southampton’s Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo to assess their readiness for the upcoming matches.

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Building the Squad and Securing Commitments
Chelle’s trip is not just about meeting established players; he is also looking to persuade dual-nationality talents to commit their international futures to Nigeria. Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo, Brighton’s Michael Kayode, and Arsenal’s teenage prodigy Ethan Nwaneri are all eligible for the Super Eagles and could be long-term targets for the new boss.

Additionally, he may engage in discussions with Chelsea-owned Lesley Ugochukwu, who has yet to decide between representing France or Nigeria. Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi, recently returning from injury, could also take time to meet Chelle and discuss the team’s plans.

Crucial World Cup Qualifiers Ahead
Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes are hanging in the balance. After four matches, the Super Eagles sit fifth in Group C with just three points, four behind group leaders Rwanda. With only the top two teams securing a World Cup ticket, Chelle has made it clear that reversing Nigeria’s fortunes is his primary objective.

“As I’ve said before, my focus is on my players and March. We need to concentrate on the World Cup qualifiers first, and after that, in October, we can start thinking about AFCON. For now, we need to win two games in March,” Chelle stated after last week’s AFCON draw in Morocco.

Must-Win Matches Await
Nigeria will face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before returning to Uyo for a decisive clash against Zimbabwe on March 25. Victories in both games are essential if the Super Eagles are to keep their World Cup dream alive. Chelle’s visit to England is a crucial step in ensuring the squad is well-prepared and motivated for these high-stakes encounters.

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2025 AFCON: Nigeria sets to face Tunisia, Uganda,Tanzania

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The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to take on Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania as the Final Draw for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), tagged Morocco 2025, was concluded following a star-studded ceremony at the Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat on Monday, giving the 24 qualified teams their path to the trophy.

The teams were drawn into six groups each containing four sides ahead of the 21st December 2025 to 18th January 2026 finals tournament, that will be spread across six host cities and nine stadia in Morocco as Africa’s best chase the continent’s most coveted trophy.

The draw, which was broadcast in over 90 countries worldwide, was conducted with the assistance of African legends Serge Aurier, Aliou Cissé, Joseph Yobo and Mustapha Hadji.

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Hosts Morocco headline Group A and will take on Mali, Zambia and Comoros in what looks a hotly contested pool. Record seven-time winners Egypt face a trio of Southern African teams in Group B in the form of last year’s bronze medalists South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe.

In Group C, Nigeria will lock horns with Tunisia and the East African duo of Uganda and Tanzania, who will be CAF AFCON co-hosts in 2027.

The 2021 champions Senegal go up against Democratic Republic of Congo, Benin and Botswana in Group D. Algeria, winners in 2019, take on Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea and Sudan in an interesting Group E.

And defending champions Cote d’Ivoire face old rivals and five-time winners Cameroon, Gabon and Mozambique in Group F as they look to claim back-to-back titles.

The top two teams in each pool will advance to the round of 16, along with the four best Third-placed sides. Morocco is hosting the CAF AFCON for the first time since 1988

CAF AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS, MOROCCO 2025 

GROUP A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros

GROUP B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

GROUP C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania

GROUP D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana

GROUP E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan

GROUP F: Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique.

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NFF Unveils Eric Chelle as Super Eagles Coach

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By Othniel Canice

Eric Chelle was officially unveiled on Monday as the head coach of Nigeria’s national football team, Super Eagles. The event took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, where Chelle signed a two-year contract with an option for an additional year contingent on the team qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.

NFF Calls for National Support

During the unveiling, Ibrahim Gusau, President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), urged Nigerians to support Chelle in his mission to lead Super Eagles to success.

“I want to assure you that Eric is here to work,” Gusau said. “Let all of us, the football stakeholders in Nigeria, rally around Eric and give him all the support he needs. We at the Nigerian Football Federation and the National Sports Commission are ready to provide everything required for him to execute his job diligently without any hitches.”

Contract Details and Coaching Staff

Gusau disclosed specifics about the contract, stating, He has signed a two-year contract with the option of an extra year if Super Eagles qualify for the World Cup. He also noted that Chelle would bring in three assistants who will work alongside two existing coaches.

Chelle’s Vision for Super Eagles

Speaking after signing the contract, Chelle expressed his commitment to building a high-scoring, goal-oriented team. “Football is about scoring goals, and I am here to work,” Chelle stated. He highlighted Nigeria’s rich football history and praised the team’s potential. “Nigeria has one of the best teams, not only in Africa but in the world,” he added.

Challenges and Objectives Ahead

The 47-year-old coach faces the immediate challenge of reviving Nigeria’s faltering 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Super Eagles are currently in fifth place in Group C, with only three points from four matches and no victories recorded so far.

Preparations for CHAN Tournament

In addition to his role as head coach, Chelle is expected to supervise Super Eagles B team as they intensify preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament. His involvement aims to provide strategic guidance and enhance the team’s performance.

SPORT

Eric Chelle: 10 things to know about new Super Eagles coach

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Former Mali Defender Takes Over Leadership of Nigeria’s National Football Team

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially named Éric Chelle as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, following approval from the NFF Executive Committee. This decision comes after a recommendation from the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee, which identified Chelle as the ideal candidate to lead Nigeria’s national football team.

Background of the New Coach
1. Early Life and Nationality
Although born in Côte d’Ivoire, Chelle is a Malian citizen, with his roots firmly planted in Mali through his mother. Raised in France, Chelle grew up in a multicultural environment that has influenced both his playing and coaching style.

2. Playing Career: A Stalwart Defender
Chelle was known for his solid defensive capabilities during his playing days. His career took him to several French clubs, including Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais. As a central defender, he was recognized for his aerial prowess and his ability to read the game effectively.

3. International Experience
Between 2004 and 2006, Chelle earned five caps for the Mali national team, representing his country in various international competitions and enhancing his understanding of high-level football.

4. Coaching Journey
Following his retirement from playing, Chelle transitioned into coaching. His managerial career includes stints at clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. His work with these teams helped shape his reputation as a tactician focused on strong defensive setups.

5. Success with Mali’s National Team
In May 2022, Chelle took on the role of head coach for the Mali national team. Under his leadership, Mali achieved significant success, including a quarter-final finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire—a performance that elevated his profile within African football.

6. Appointment as Super Eagles Coach
On January 7, 2025, Chelle was appointed as head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles. He succeeds Finidi George, who had previously held the role. Chelle’s appointment is expected to bring fresh tactics and a new direction to the Nigerian national team, which is looking to bounce back from recent challenges.

7. Managerial Record and Achievements
Chelle’s managerial career boasts a solid record of 67 wins, 40 draws, and 41 losses, giving him a win percentage of 45.27%. His strategic focus on building strong defensive units and his adaptability have earned him respect across various coaching circles.

8. Dual Heritage and Cultural Awareness
With a French father and a Malian mother, Chelle’s dual heritage has made him a bridge between African and European football cultures. His understanding of both continents’ football philosophies is an asset to the Super Eagles as they look to integrate different playing styles.

9. Playing Philosophy and Team Focus
As a player, Chelle was renowned for his physicality and aerial dominance. He aims to instill these qualities in his coaching, emphasizing a disciplined, organized defense and strategic counter-attacks. His teams are known for their resilience and commitment to teamwork.

10. Language Skills
Fluent in French, English, and several African languages, Chelle’s multilingual abilities are expected to facilitate communication with players from diverse backgrounds. This skill will be crucial in managing the Super Eagles, a team known for its multicultural makeup.

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NFF appoints Éric Chelle as Super Eagles Head Coach

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The Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has endorsed the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the appointment of Éric Sékou Chelle as Head Coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, the Super Eagles.

At its meeting held in Abuja on Thursday, 2nd January 2025, the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee had recommended the appointment of former Coach of the senior men national team of Mali as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.

This recommendation was on Tuesday, 7th January endorsed by the NFF Executive Committee. Chelle, who won five caps for the Aiglons of Mali and coached clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne and MC Oran, has been Head Coach of the Aiglons since 2022.

At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cote d’Ivoire, Chelle’s Mali came very close to a place in the semi-finals, losing to hosts and eventual winners Cote d’Ivoire 2-1 after extra time, after leading by a lone goal until the final minute of regulation time.

The 47-year-old featured for Martigues, Valenciennes, Lens, Istres and Chamois Niortais in France during his playing career.

His appointment is with immediate effect, and he has the responsibility of guiding the Super Eagles to earn a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, with the next round of matches (Matchdays 5 & 6) taking place in March.

Chidi Nwoke VON

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Bayer Leverkusen Striker Victor Boniface Faces Setback in Injury Rehabilitation

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Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has suffered a setback in his recovery from a thigh injury, the German club confirmed today. The Nigeria international, who has not featured for the Bundesliga side since November, is facing further delays in his return to full fitness.

In a statement released by Bayer Leverkusen, the club confirmed that Boniface’s rehabilitation had encountered a “minor setback.” The statement also included an update on other sidelined players, including German midfielder Jonas Hofmann and French winger Amine Adli.

“Jonas Hofmann, Amine Adli, and Victor Boniface are still sidelined,” the statement read. “The return of the Nigerian has been delayed due to a minor setback in his rehab.”

The update also mentioned the status of Argentine winter signing Alejo Sarco, who has yet to feature in a match for the club as he is gradually being integrated into the squad.

Boniface’s Return and World Cup Concerns

Boniface’s prolonged absence raises questions about his fitness ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, which are scheduled to take place in March 2025. The Super Eagles are set to face Zimbabwe and Rwanda in the early stages of their World Cup campaign, and the team’s coach will be hoping to have the dynamic striker fully fit for these crucial fixtures.