Chelle targets victory as Nigeria clash with South Africa

By Tosin Omojola –

Super Eagles’ head coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, said his side will aim for nothing but maximum points in today’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa.

Ahead of the Group C showdown, Chelle said he will be putting his best foot forward from the first blast of Gabonese referee Pierre Ghislain Atcho’s whistle at the Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein.

“We have come here to play for the three points, so we will be sending out the team that will get the job done. We are happy to have overcome Rwanda but we have to conquer here today (Tuesday) in order to be in a good position for qualification.”

Although Nigeria started the race poorly, Chelle has picked up seven points out of nine in three games with the squad and believes his team has the capacity to deal with the South Africans.

Nigerians will be hoping the coach’s optimism is reflected on the pitch as the Eagles battle group leaders Bafana Bafana.

Going into this game, the South Africans top the group with 16 points, while Nigeria is placed fourth with 10 points, hence victory for the Super Eagles becomes a must.

The crucial tie is billed to kick off at 6 p.m. South African time and 5 p.m. Nigerian time.

When both sides met in the first leg in Uyo, the South Africans denied the Eagles maximum points after holding them to a 1-1 draw.