Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has called Nigeria’s upcoming friendly against Portugal a great chance to see how his team is doing against one of the top teams in the world.
At his pre-match press conference, Chelle recognized the tough challenge ahead but said the game is more about building the team’s identity and long-term growth than just winning.
Chelle praised Portugal, calling them one of the best teams globally and a strong contender for trophies.
“We play against a very big team. Normally, this team is supposed to be among the favourites to become world champions,” Chelle said.
“There are many top players in that team, so we are very happy to have this opportunity to play against them. It is a big game for Portugal and a big game for us.”
Even though Nigeria lost to Portugal in their last match, Chelle said his players won't be scared or worried about that.
He emphasized that the focus should be on improving rather than worrying about the score.
“This is not about the result,” he stated. “Some people may think that because we lost the last time, there is something to be afraid of. No, it is not about that.
“The most important objective is to improve in every game. We have to approach this match with the right mentality and stay faithful to our philosophy.”
Chelle pointed out that Nigeria is not going just for a fun game. He said his team will play with ambition, even though they know Portugal is a strong side.
“We want to enjoy ourselves on the pitch, but we are not coming as a small team,” he said.
“We come with ambitions, with our strengths and also with our weaknesses. It will be a great game for us.”
Chelle also mentioned that Portugal might want to play Nigeria because of the physical style often seen in African teams.
He didn’t want to compare Nigeria directly with DR Congo but said Portugal might see this match as good preparation after their experience with Congo in World Cup qualifying.
“I don’t think about who is the better team. I think about style and philosophy,” he explained.
“Maybe Portugal wanted to play an African team because of the intensity. When I talk about intensity, I mean physicality.
“It is a good opportunity for Portugal to play against us because we played DR Congo in the World Cup playoffs and lost on penalties. Maybe they want to see how they can play against them.”
Looking beyond this match, Chelle also talked about his job as Super Eagles coach. He is focused on building a team that will be successful even after he leaves.
The former Mali coach said he picks players based on their performance, making sure that everyone called up has earned it through good play at their clubs.
“My job is to bring together the best players in the country and create the right balance between experienced players and younger ones,” Chelle said.
“Because Nigeria will remain Nigeria after Eric Chelle. Nigeria has so much talent. I spoke a year ago about how I wanted to do my job, and I have simply done that.
“I am not lucky. Every player I invite deserves to be here because he has shown something every week.”
Chelle added that he also needs to create the best environment for players to do well, especially when injuries or absences make things tough.
“My job now is to put these players in the best possible condition at the right moment,” he said.
“Sometimes circumstances are not ideal because one player is missing, two players are missing, or someone cannot play. But the only thing I can do is continue to make the best choices for the team.
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