Chelle has done well, says Oliseh

Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has denied reports that he criticised head coach Eric Chelle’s appointment following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Nigeria crashed out after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the final African playoff, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Clarifying his stance on X, Oliseh insisted his comments were misinterpreted and commended Chelle for his impact since taking charge.

“Correction please, I didn’t criticise the coach, watch the clip again. I was unhappy he was appointed instead of a qualified Nigerian, but so far, he has done relatively well. Let’s call a spade, a spade,” Oliseh wrote.

Speaking on his podcast, the former Juventus and Borussia Dortmund midfielder said, “I am one of those who, in reality, was totally unhappy when he was appointed, but I must be honest with you that so far, he has won me over. I feel like the man has really given it a lot, he’s done a lot, and he’s picked up some points, better than any of the two people that preceded him.”

With the World Cup ticket now out of reach, the Super Eagles will shift focus to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where they have been drawn in Group C alongside Uganda, Tunisia and Tanzania.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: [email protected]