Super Eagles stars Wilfred Ndidi and Kenneth Omeruo have backed newly appointed head coach Eric Chelle to defy all odds and secure the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket.

Chelle was officially unveiled on Monday, January 13, following his appointment by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) last week.

The 47-year-old has become the 37th Super Eagles coach and the first non-Nigerian African to lead the three-time African champions.

Chelle's appointment has been met with backlash from fans who believe there are better indigenous coaches in Nigeria who are equally qualified for the role.

Despite the criticisms, Ndidi and Omeruo, who are senior members of the Super Eagles team, have thrown their weight behind the Malian tactician to qualify the team for the 2026 World Cup.

“The new coach has something to give to the Super Eagles,” Omeruo said in a live session on his X handle, which he co-hosted with Ndidi.

“We saw a very organised Mali during our friendly match last year and at the AFCON.

“And now with the talent in Nigeria, we expect even more.”

Ndidi also expressed his optimism.

“With our quality and the new coach, we will qualify for the 2026 World Cup,” the Leicester City star said.

“It won’t be easy, but we’re all together in the task to qualify for the World Cup.”

Nigeria will take on Rwanda when the World Cup qualifiers resume later in March.