Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Praises Defensive Quartet After 4–1 Victory Over Gabon

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has applauded four of his defenders following Nigeria’s dominant 4–1 win against Gabon in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff on Thursday.

Chelle singled out Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, and Zaidu Sanusi, praising the backline for their solid display during the match in Rabat, Morocco.

Nigeria’s impressive win came through goals from Akor Adams, Chidera Ejuke, and a brace from Victor Osimhen, who continues to prove why he remains one of Africa’s deadliest forwards.

Speaking after the game, Chelle acknowledged both the strengths and areas for improvement:

“We conceded a goal in the last minute, but we had a better chance to finish the game at the last moment,” he told reporters.
“It was a new defence too. Bright, Benjamin, Calvin and Zaidu – they played well. The team was strong in defence, but we can improve every time.”

The Super Eagles will now shift their focus to a high-stakes showdown against DR Congo in Sunday’s World Cup playoff final — a match that will determine who advances to the Intercontinental Playoffs.

Opinion: A New Defensive Era? Chelle’s Praise Signals a Silent Shift

Chelle’s singling out of four defenders might seem like routine post-match praise — but it actually hints at something deeper.

For years, the Super Eagles have been more known for their attacking firepower than defensive reliability. But in Rabat, the backline showed unusual calm, structure, and confidence, especially considering it was a newly assembled unit.

Benjamin Fredrick, the youngest of the group, played far beyond his age.
Bassey and Osayi-Samuel brought stability and pace.
Zaidu added experience and width.

For Chelle to openly highlight them signals a possible shift toward a more balanced Super Eagles side — one capable of not only scoring goals but also controlling games from the back.

Yes, they conceded late. Yes, the defence is still a work in progress.
But the signs are promising.

As Nigeria prepares for DR Congo — a team hungry and fearless after their surprise run — defensive discipline will matter as much as attacking brilliance. If this new backline maintains its confidence, Nigeria may enter the final with more than just talent — they’ll have belief.

And sometimes, belief is what wins big matches.