Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has declined to comment on the ongoing bonuses dispute in Nigeria’s camp ahead of Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal against Algeria’s Desert Warriors.
Tensions over player bonuses disrupted Nigeria’s preparations, with some players skipping training before the team’s departure to Marrakesh on Thursday.
At the pre-match press conference, reporters asked Chelle how he manages to maintain a positive team atmosphere amid conflicts with the Nigeria Football Federation.
“This is my job—to focus only on the pitch and not get distracted by anything else,” Chelle said. “You can discuss energy and mindset, but the most important thing is the state of mind.”
Chelle emphasised the unity within the squad, noting that the players have continued to support one another despite the challenges.
“The group has stayed very united. Whenever you take action, there are both positive and negative outcomes, but it’s important to stay focused on our goal and the team. Our mood is positive, we are physically ready, and technically prepared. My focus is the pitch. If you have other questions, feel free to ask my Federation,” he added.
Nigeria and Algeria together have claimed five AFCON titles, with the Super Eagles last winning in 2013 and Algeria lifting the trophy in 2019.
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