‘I want my team to stay focused’ - Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle defends media blackout

Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle has strongly defended his decision to impose a temporary media blackout on training sessions, insisting the move is essential to maintaining player focus as the Super Eagles prepare for a decisive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 clash against Mozambique.

Speaking during a press conference on Sunday, Chelle addressed growing criticism from journalists over the restricted access in the final days leading up to the must-win encounter.

The former Mali international emphasised that his actions were guided strictly by professional responsibility, not hostility toward the media.

“My job is not just to cut off the national team from the media. But now I am not on holiday. I have to take care of players and work,” Chelle explained.

Chelle revealed that AFCON regulations typically allow only one open training session per week.

However, he said he voluntarily approved an additional session out of respect for the media covering the tournament.

“Because I respect this country and I respect you guys, we agreed to give a second training session per week. For me, it’s a good deal,” he said.

With qualification on the line, Chelle stressed that the current stage of the competition requires stricter control to avoid distractions and tactical leaks.

“This is because I want to let my team stay focused. We have a goal, we have an objective. If I open all the training sessions and then we lose, they will say, ‘Eric is crazy, he opens the door every time,” he added.

The 46-year-old coach was keen to clarify that the media blackout was not personal, but rather a protective measure for his squad.

“This is not against you; this is to protect the players. I want them to stay focused on it,” Chelle reiterated.

In a lighter moment, Chelle even joked that journalists were welcome to observe the routine, though he stressed the importance of mutual respect.

“If you want to come to the hotel to see that, I have no problem. But I prefer everybody to do their job. After that, for sure, I will be judged,” he added.