Chelle on Thin Ice: NFF to Decide Coach’s Fate Following Morocco Defeat

After a heartbreaking semi-final exit against Morocco, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle says his future is in the hands of the NFF.

Although he has revitalized the squad during his year-long stint, the 4-2 shootout defeat has left his position in doubt.

“I am a fan of this Nigerian team. This job is very important to me and I try to do my job with total commitment,” Chelle said at the post match press conference.

He added: “The tournament is not over yet. After the AFCON, I will meet with the NFF and we will decide the next step.”

“My future, I don’t know for now. I am the coach of Nigeria at this moment, but it depends on whether the NFF want me to continue or not.”

Persecondnews had reported that the semi-final encounter ended in a stalemate after 120 minutes of intense football, with Morocco eventually holding their nerve from the spot to progress to the final.

With the win, Morocco has set up a final showdown against Senegal, who edged Egypt 1–0 in the first semi-final earlier on Saturday. Nigeria will now face Egypt in the third-place playoff.

Super Eagles Player Ratings:

– Stanley Nwabali – 8/10: Nigeria’s standout performer, making several key saves and denying Morocco from the spot in the shootout.

– Bright Osayi-Samuel – 5.5/10: Worked hard defensively but struggled to make an impact going forward.

– Semi Ajayi – 6/10: Put in a solid defensive display, particularly in aerial duels and recovery situations.

– Calvin Bassey – 7.5/10: One of Nigeria’s most reliable defenders, showing strength and composure at the back.

– Frank Onyeka – 5/10: Found it difficult to impose himself in midfield as Morocco dominated possession.

– Bruno Onyemaechi – 7.5/10: One of his best performances of the tournament, defending resolutely and supporting the attack.

– Raphael Onyedika – 5/10: A below-par showing, making several errors early on.

– Ademola Lookman – 5/10: An average outing, struggling to influence the game.

– Alex Iwobi – 5.5/10: Closely marked throughout the match and unable to unlock the Moroccan defense.

– Victor Osimhen – 6/10: Worked tirelessly up front but received limited service and was largely isolated.

– Akor Adams – 5.5/10: Showed energy after coming on but failed to create a decisive moment.