Nigeria Vs Russia: Eric Chelle says Super Eagles want to win every game
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has set his sights on victory as Nigeria prepares to face Russia in a highly anticipated international friendly at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday.
Buoyed by their Unity Cup triumph in London, the Super Eagles are heading into the clash with confidence and momentum.
However, Chelle has warned that the focus must now shift to the challenge ahead.
What Chelle said
The three-time African champions successfully defended their Unity Cup title after a penalty shootout win over Jamaica, and Chelle is eager to see his players build on that performance.
“Now we go to Russia, and our goal is to win every game. We’re not just travelling for a match — we’re going there to win,” Chelle told reporters ahead of the team’s departure.
He continued, “Right now, I think we’re still in Jamaica — mentally, it feels like it because of how tough the game was. But we must now shift focus.
“Playing away from home is never easy. That’s why we’re working on the mental side of things. That was my message to the players: we need to show the football world our mindset, our hunger.”
Chelle, who has been praised for integrating home-based talents and instilling a disciplined playing philosophy, insists the objective remains unchanged.
“We’re continuing with the same ambition — to go to Russia, get the win, and return to Abuja with our heads held high," he added.
The Super Eagles are using the Russia friendly as part of their build-up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.