Eric Chelle Moved by Journalists’ Birthday Song in Uyo
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle was moved when journalists sang happy birthday to him at a pre-match press conference in Uyo on Wednesday, ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifier against Tanzania. The match is set for Friday, November 13, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, according to Pulse and Football in Nigeria. https://www.pulse.ng/story/super-eagles-players-surprise-eric-chelle-with-brutal-birthday-gauntlet-in-camp-2026111209102435246
The Birthday Moment
Chelle’s birthday fell on Wednesday, November 11, according to Soft Football, and Pulse reported that his players also surprised him in camp with a playful birthday gauntlet.
Pulse said the occasion showed the growing bond between the coach and his players.
Chelle was joined at the briefing by forward Tolu Arokodare. Arokodare comes into the squad on the back of a brace for Ajax, according to Within Nigeria.
What Chelle Said
Chelle said the camp spirit is high and that the players understand what is at stake in Group L. Football in Nigeria described the double-header as one in which Nigeria cannot afford to drop points.
He also said he takes full responsibility for the team’s results.
The Okoye Question
Chelle defended leaving goalkeeper Maduka Okoye out of the 24-man squad, saying selections are based on performance on the pitch and fit within the team.
Earlier, Chelle told Foot Africa that Okoye is still part of the national team and that his absence was a selection decision, according to Sportsration.
Chelle selected Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho and Arthur Okonkwo as his goalkeepers, according to Afrik-Foot, which said Okoye plays regularly in Serie A for Udinese.
Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika are also missing, with Osimhen recovering from knee surgery, according to Afrik-Foot.
Fixtures and Stakes
Nigeria host Tanzania on Friday, November 13, with a 5:00pm Nigerian time kick-off, according to Football in Nigeria, then play the return leg on Tuesday, November 17.
Football in Nigeria said the Super Eagles have gone five games without a clean sheet, and that all 24 invited players are now in camp in Uyo.
Joydey9ja.com will update this report after the match.
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