2026 World Cup qualifiers: Eric Chelle meets three key Super Eagles stars ahead of Rwanda, Zimbabwe clashes

New head coach of the Nigerian national football team, Eric Chelle, has been spotted with three key players in his squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations champions are set to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe on the 21st and 25th of March, 2025.

As part of his efforts to familiarise himself with his squad before the crucial qualifiers, Chelle was seen posing with Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Moses Simon.

See the photos here:

Head coach Éric Chelle and first assistant Hedi Taboubi visited some Super Eagles players ahead of the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers. #RoadToWorldCup2026 #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/fvHm1woBd7

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) February 8, 2025

Aside from Ndidi, Fulham midfielder Iwobi and Nantes winger Moses Simon played crucial roles in Nigeria’s 2023 AFCON campaign, where they finished as runners-up.

Ndidi’s influence on the national team cannot be overlooked, having captained the side on several occasions. This meeting suggests that Chelle is keen on building a strong relationship with his key players ahead of his debut on the sidelines.

The March fixtures will mark Chelle’s first competitive games as Super Eagles head coach, and he will be aiming for maximum points in what has become a must-win situation. Nigeria currently sits second-bottom in Group C, with only three points from a possible 12 in their four games.

To avoid missing out on another World Cup after their absence in 2022, the Super Eagles must improve significantly in their upcoming fixtures.

Chelle’s visit shows his intention to bond with his team as he looks to inspire his squad to give Nigerian football fans something to cheer about.