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Super Eagles winger Moses Simon says head coach Eric Chelle has been driving the Nigerian team to fight their way back into contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite a shaky start to their qualifying campaign.
Nigeria currently sit fourth in Group C, six points behind leaders South Africa, and face a make-or-break doubleheader in the coming days — beginning with a crucial home tie against Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday, before travelling to Johannesburg to meet the Bafana Bafana three days later.
Simon, one of the most experienced players in the squad, praised Chelle’s approach, stressing that his resilience and motivational drive have been vital in lifting the team’s spirit.
“He’s trying to push, he never gives up and he’s trying to inspire the boys to fight no matter what,” Simon said.
“The old Super Eagles, the old players then, they always fought — not just on the pitch, but to play for the shirt and for the badge. That’s what the coach is demanding now, and it is good for the players and good for the nation.”
Goals Still a Major Concern
The Paris FC forward admitted that Nigeria’s biggest weakness remains a lack of goals, with the team registering just one victory in their opening six qualifiers.
“We need to score more goals because in the old days, before twenty minutes the game was already over,” Simon observed.
“It’s not just strikers — wingers need to score, midfielders, even defenders. At the last AFCON, William Ekong scored three goals and he’s a defender. It has to be collective: score goals, defend well, and work together as a team.”
Confidence Remains High
Despite the precarious position in the group, Simon remains confident the Super Eagles can turn things around.
“My confidence level is high because we have it in us to qualify,” he said.
“The spirit is high, and as a team we are ready to work, encourage the young ones, and get the job done. This is our opportunity and we can’t miss it.”
Nigeria’s fate could be decided in the next two fixtures, with anything less than maximum points potentially spelling the end of their World Cup hopes.