Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to resist the growing calls for the sack of head coach Eric Chelle, insisting that despite the failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stability — not panic — is what Nigeria needs ahead of the fast-approaching Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Etafia, known for his calm analysis and deep understanding of Nigerian football, admitted openly that the Franco-Malian coach made mistakes and displayed tactical weaknesses during the World Cup qualification campaign.
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But he also argued that Chelle has brought visible improvement and much-needed structure to the team — progress he believes could be destroyed by firing him now.
“I still have doubts about some of his tactics, but the truth is that the team has improved under Chelle,” Etafia said. “This is not the moment to remove him. Let him take this team to AFCON.”
The former Plateau United shot-stopper emphasised the importance of continuity, warning that a last-minute coaching change could derail Nigeria’s preparations and plunge the team into further chaos. He reminded Nigerians that AFCON is only weeks away, leaving little time for a new manager to impose his philosophy or understand the players.
Etafia stressed that while World Cup failure is painful, it should not trigger emotional decision-making. Instead, he said Nigeria must focus on consolidating whatever progress has been made, while allowing Chelle the chance to finish what he started.
“Changing coaches every time we fail is part of why we’re here. We need patience. Let Chelle take responsibility at AFCON — then judge him fully afterwards,” he explained.
He also urged the players to take accountability, noting that a coach is only as good as the response he gets from his squad. According to Etafia, the Super Eagles must show hunger, unity, and professionalism if they hope to compete in Morocco.
His message to the NFF was firm:
Don’t panic. Don’t rebuild in a rush. Stick with Chelle till AFCON — then make the big decision.
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