2. Atoning for failing to qualify for World Cup 2026
Peseiro was also the manager when Nigeria commenced their campaign to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but failed to navigate the best start possible.
Chelle wrapped the qualification series up last month, also with a less than desirable outcome, as DR Congo shockingly ended any lingering Nigerian hopes of reaching the showpiece that kicks off in North America next year.
Until now, since their impressive FIFA World Cup debut in 1994, Nigerians have never had to endure the absence of their team from successive editions of the Mundial, but such is the experience with which they must contend come next summer.
True, nothing that happens between now and then would quite remove the sting of missing out on the global event, but if Chelle and his charges are able to deliver an AFCON triumph in the coming weeks, Nigeria’s first in a dozen years or so, it definitely would help in dulling the pain.
