Igoh Ogbu Praises Super Eagles’ Coach Eric Chelle Ahead of Crucial Rwanda Clash

As the Super Eagles prepare to take on Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Friday, central defender Igoh Ogbu has opened up about what he admires most about the team’s new head coach, Eric Chelle.

Ogbu, who plays for Slavia Prague, has been in superb form this season, earning him his first call-up to the national team for the decisive matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Speaking to reporters in Kigali ahead of Friday’s clash, the promising defender praised Chelle’s coaching style and dedication.

“He is a tough gaffer, he pushes us to be good players, and that is what I love,” Ogbu said.

The defender’s comments highlight Chelle’s hands-on approach and relentless push for excellence among his players. For a national team grappling with World Cup qualification pressures, such an approach could be precisely what’s needed to steer the squad to success.

Ogbu’s impressive season with Slavia Prague — where he has scored two goals in twenty league games and featured in both Champions League qualifiers and the Europa League — suggests he could be a valuable asset to the Super Eagles' defense.

Opinion: Can Eric Chelle’s Tough Love Approach Revive the Super Eagles?

The timing of Eric Chelle’s appointment couldn’t be more critical. With the Super Eagles desperately needing all available points to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive, his demanding coaching style could be the game-changer.

Ogbu’s statement about being “pushed to be good players” speaks volumes about the mentality Chelle wants to instill in the squad. The Super Eagles have often been criticized for lacking grit and focus in high-stakes matches, something that Chelle seems determined to fix.

But is this “tough love” approach enough to secure victory against Rwanda and later Zimbabwe? In a team blessed with talents but sometimes marred by tactical inconsistency, a disciplined and rigorous coaching style might just be the missing piece of the puzzle.

Beyond tactics, Chelle appears to be winning the confidence of the players, starting with newcomers like Ogbu. And when players believe in their coach’s vision, it often translates into better performances on the field.

All eyes will be on the Amahoro Stadium on Friday. Will Chelle’s strategies pay off? And more importantly, will the Super Eagles rise to the challenge under his guidance?