Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has emphasized the need for total focus as the team resumed training behind closed doors on Sunday in Uyo, preparing for their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe.
Following their 2-0 victory over Rwanda last Friday, the squad traveled directly from Kigali to Uyo via a chartered Valujet flight and began their first training session. While the sessions remain private, media access will be allowed on match day through a mixed zone interaction with the players.
Chelle has underlined the significance of the upcoming match against Zimbabwe, who held Nigeria to a goalless draw in the first leg. “We need to be ready for the next game. I prefer to focus on my team rather than discussing weaknesses. My priority is analysing and improving our own play,” he stated after the win in Kigali.
The Super Eagles will have two full training sessions before facing Zimbabwe on Tuesday, while their opponents also held their first session on Sunday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium’s training pitch.
Nigeria’s victory over Rwanda has revived their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Another win against Zimbabwe would further boost their chances as they currently sit fourth in Group C with six points from five matches, trailing leaders South Africa by four points.
In other group fixtures, South Africa will take on the Benin Republic in Abidjan while Nigeria battles Zimbabwe.
Team media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed that Chelle remains focused and has imposed strict restrictions on media and visitors in camp. “Sunday’s training is closed. Monday’s session will be opened for the mandatory 15 minutes, shortly after the official press conference,” Efoghe announced.
