Nigeria’s defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Africa playoff final for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to spark strong reactions from fans and former players alike. The Super Eagles fell 4–3 on penalties after playing out a 1–1 draw in regulation time, meaning Nigeria will miss the World Cup for the second consecutive edition.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, former Nigeria internationals Peterside Idah and Simon Zenke shared their candid thoughts on Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and the team’s failure to secure qualification.
Zenke did not hide his frustrations.
“It is not the time to apportion blames, but I won’t say I am a fan of the coach, to be honest with you,” he said in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa. “In as much as I want to put the whole blame on him, it is not only about him. It is collective. Everyone is involved, and it starts from the very top down to the players. They are all to be blamed for this disaster.”
Despite being critical, Zenke cautioned against making drastic changes before the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
“For the AFCON, there is not enough time to bring a new coach in. Let them (NFF) allow him to go to the AFCON because a new coach will not have time to put his ideas across to the players in time for the tournament. We are stuck with him for now, and even though I am not a fan, I can only wish him and the team well at the AFCON because Nigeria always comes first before anything else,” he noted.
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Idah, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper, offered a contrasting view, strongly backing Chelle to continue.
“You know, this coach, this man, has been a blessing to us. He took a dead team and brought some revival, so I think for me he has to stay,” he said.
Idah urged patience and unity ahead of the continental tournament.
“Let’s prosecute the Nations Cup, and everything about the NFF and the elections next year, whether they should stay is quite premature, absolutely premature. Let’s look at things; a lot can change between now and next year. The Nations Cup is upon us. Let’s wish the team all the best,” he added.
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Idah concluded with a passionate declaration of loyalty.
“For me, I’m an Eagle. An Eagle will always be an Eagle, I can never be a vulture. I remain a Super Eagle, and our prayer is for the team to be the best in the world. Sometimes you have to go down to climb up. I think we are at our worst now, where nothing is working in Nigerian football, but I believe after the death comes resurrection. Let’s continue to believe.” the former Tembissa Classic goalkeeper added.
