Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has declined to comment on the bonuses dispute affecting the Nigerian team ahead of their quarterfinal match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria are scheduled to face Algeria’s Desert Warriors on Saturday, but preparations for the encounter were disrupted following a disagreement over players’ bonuses. The issue reportedly led to the team skipping a training session before travelling to Marrakesh on Thursday.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Chelle was asked how he planned to restore a positive atmosphere in the camp amid reports of tension involving the football authorities.
“This is my job, to focus only on the pitch and not get distracted by anything else,” Chelle said. “You can talk about energy and state of mind, but the most important thing is the mentality.”
The coach stressed that despite recent challenges, the squad remains united and focused on its objective at the tournament.
“The group has stayed very united. In every situation, there are positives and negatives, but it’s important to keep your focus. The most important thing is the goal and the team,” he said.
Chelle added that the Super Eagles are in good condition ahead of the clash. “Our mood is positive. We are physically ready, technically prepared, and I will make the necessary decisions on the pitch.”
He concluded by directing questions on administrative matters away from the team. “I want to talk only about what is happening on the pitch. For other issues, you can ask my Federation.”
Nigeria and Algeria have won a combined five Africa Cup of Nations titles. The Super Eagles last lifted the trophy in 2013, while Algeria claimed their most recent title in 2019.
