Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has emphasized that securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is his top priority, as Nigeria faces a challenging road to qualification following a poor start to their campaign.

While attending the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON) draw, Chelle made it clear that his immediate focus is on the World Cup qualifiers, with AFCON preparations only becoming a priority in October 2025.

Nigeria secured their spot at AFCON by topping Group D in the qualifiers with 11 points from a possible 18. However, their World Cup qualifying campaign has been disastrous, with the team failing to win any of their four matches so far.

In an interview with the NFF, Chelle expressed confidence in his squad but stressed the importance of focus and preparation.

“We are a strong team, and now we need to focus on World Cup qualification,” Chelle said.

“After that, in October, we can think about what comes next. But now, we need to be focused on one goal, and the goal is the next game against Rwanda.”

The Super Eagles sit fifth in their qualifying group with just three points, trailing group leaders Rwanda by four points.

With only six matches left, their upcoming fixtures against Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe will be crucial. A defeat in either game could all but end their World Cup hopes.

Nigeria will resume their qualification campaign in March with an away trip to Amahoro Stadium to face Rwanda, followed by a match against Zimbabwe. Chelle will be aiming for maximum points from both encounters.

After the March fixtures, the Super Eagles will regroup in September and October for their final four games before shifting focus to AFCON 2025, where they will seek a fourth continental title.