Super Eagles Coach Chelle Demands More from NPFL Players
Super Eagles defeated Zimbabwe 2-0 in Tuesday's Unity Cup opener, with Femi Azeez scoring both goals in an experimental squad. Coach Éric Chelle deliberately blended NPFL standouts like Oputa, Igboke, Tosin Oyedokun and Aderemi Adeoye with Europe-based professionals, as regular stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman rested.
Despite the victory, Chelle delivered a stern message to the home-based players: flashes of promise won't guarantee long-term places in the national team. "It was difficult for some of the new players because it was their first time playing in Europe," Chelle admitted during his post-match press conference. "But this is only a friendly game, it is not a World Cup or AFCON qualifier."
The Franco-Malian tactician praised the NPFL players' attitude and effort but emphasized they're "far from finished products." With crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers looming after the Unity Cup, competition for places will intensify significantly once established internationals return. For NPFL players, the Unity Cup provided an opening, but sustained excellence and tactical discipline will determine who survives the next selection cycle. Can these home-based players maintain their form against Africa's elite?