Unity Cup: What Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle must focus on before World Cup qualifiers

As Nigeria's Super Eagles gear up for the 2025 Unity Cup in London, all eyes will be on head coach Eric Chelle, who is tasked with steadying the ship ahead of the resumption of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The Unity Cup offers more than just friendly competition. For Chelle, it is an opportunity to experiment, rebuild confidence, and strengthen team cohesion following Nigeria’s inconsistent start in the qualifiers. 

The Super Eagles currently sit in fourth place in Group C with seven points — six points behind leaders South Africa, who have 13.

One of the coach’s top priorities should be solving the midfield imbalance that has plagued recent performances. 

Too often, Nigeria has struggled to control the tempo of matches, leaving their defence exposed and the attack starved of service. 

Chelle must assess combinations that offer both creativity and stability in the middle of the park.

Another area requiring urgent attention is finishing. Despite creating chances, Nigeria has been guilty of wastefulness in front of goal. 

The Unity Cup is an ideal platform to test new attacking options and sharpen the team’s cutting edge.

Defensively, Chelle needs to tighten a backline that has shown signs of vulnerability. 

The return of experienced captain William Troost-Ekong brings leadership, but finding the right partnership in central defence and improving communication at the back will be crucial.

Moreover, Chelle must use the Unity Cup to instill a clear tactical identity. Since his appointment, the Super Eagles have lacked consistency in shape and style. 

With two matches in a short span, he has a rare chance to implement and reinforce a game model.

As the Super Eagles prepare for their clash against Ghana on 28 May, fans will hope the Unity Cup marks the beginning of a turnaround. 

The road to the 2026 World Cup is still open — but the rebuilding must start now.

Wale Adejumo

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