Nigeria’s national football team coach Eric Chelle has addressed scrutiny over his squad selection for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), emphasizing a commitment to tactical alignment over external criticism. The Malian tactician sparked debate after naming nine players from Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Remo Stars among his 24-man roster for the tournament, a decision amplified by the fact that his assistant coach, Daniel Ogunmodede, currently leads the same club.
Chelle dismissed suggestions of bias, framing the selection as purely strategic. “My philosophy requires players who can retain possession and apply aggressive pressing when out of possession,” he told Super Eagles media. “I’ve chosen those who fit this system.” The remarks follow backlash from fans and analysts questioning potential conflicts of interest, given Ogunmodede’s dual role. CHAN regulations restrict participation to footballers actively competing in their home leagues, making Remo Stars’ domestic success a likely factor in their prominence within the squad.
Nigeria’s “Home Eagles,” as the CHAN squad is known, concluded a two-match warm-up series against Zanzibar this week with mixed results. A goalless stalemate in the opener was followed by a 2-2 draw on Thursday, highlighting both defensive resilience and vulnerabilities ahead of the tournament. Chelle’s side now faces a stern test in their Group A opener against reigning champions Senegal on Tuesday at Zanzibar’s Amman Stadium.
The matchup pits Nigeria’s NPFL-heavy lineup against a Senegalese team eyeing back-to-back titles, underscoring the stakes for Chelle’s experimental approach. While supporters have expressed frustration over the squad’s reliance on a single club, the coach remains unwavering. “Tactical identity isn’t negotiable,” he stressed, signaling confidence in a roster blending local talent with his high-tempo playing style.
With group-stage clashes against Rwanda and Guinea-Bissau to follow, Nigeria’s campaign could hinge on how swiftly Chelle’s philosophy translates to competitive results—and whether his Remo Stars contingent can silence doubts on the continental stage.
