Super Eagles Of Nigeria Coach, Eric Chelle Paid In Full Ahead Of AFCON 2025 Round Of 16′

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has received a timely boost ahead of the knockout phase of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) settled all his financial entitlements in full.

A report by Nigerian sports platform Sports Unlimited, citing a source in Fez, Morocco, confirmed that the French tactician has been paid his complete package, including his January 2026 salary. The development has reportedly lifted the mood within the camp as Nigeria prepares for the decisive stages of the tournament.

“Eric Chelle is in good state of mind financially. He has been paid all his financial entitlements, including his January 2026 salary,” the source said.

“The coach has earned $60,000, that is $20,000 per game. He is being paid $400 per day since the camp opened in Egypt.

“The NFF has done well in this regard. The coaches are happy. The players are not complaining, and the fans are not grumbling because the team is playing very well and winning. No controversial issues at all.”

On the pitch, Eric Chelle’s side have delivered a flawless group campaign. The Super Eagles recorded three wins from three matches and will now face Mozambique in the round of 16 on Monday.

That momentum has been echoed by 2024 African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman, who praised the team’s consistency as the tournament moves into the knockout rounds.

“It’s been good, three wins from three games, nine points. It is positive for us,” the 28-year-old told Ademola Victor TV. “We are going in the right direction, and we want to continue this way.”

Lookman, who plays his club football with Atalanta and previously featured for Everton, has been central to Nigeria’s strong start. He has scored twice and provided two assists during the group stage.

The forward opened his account with a goal and an assist in the 2-1 victory over Tanzania, then repeated the feat in a dramatic 3-2 win against Tunisia. With qualification already secured, he was rested for the final group match against Uganda.

Looking ahead, Lookman made it clear that Nigeria are not concerned about who stands in their way.

“There is no team we want to avoid. I have respect for everybody. If you want to win a tournament, you need to play the best,” he asserted.

“We want to continue to win the games and face everybody in this competition. We are looking forward to the teams to come.”