Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has rallied Nigerian fans to support the team in Uyo, but one of the nation’s ex-players has included a prayer addendum, Soccernet.ng reports.
The three-time African Champions have to defeat the Republic of Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday. Even a victory against Gernot Rohr’s side will leave their hopes on Rwanda securing a win over South Africa to qualify.
Alloy Agu, former goalkeeper and goalkeeping coach of the Super Eagles, weighed in on the highly anticipated clash, stating what the players must do to ensure victory in Uyo.
Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on September 6, 2025, in Uyo, Nigeria. [Photo Credit/ ImagoxAkpan Nsidibe].
In an interview with Complete Sports, the 58-year-old addressed the team from the perspective of faith, thanking God for safe arrival in Uyo after the emergency landing in Angola due to a broken window.
“First of all, we give glory to God for granting the players a safe trip back to Nigeria,” the 28-cap Super Eagles said.
“I could imagine what would have been going on in the minds of the players. But then, we bless God for taking control of the plane.”
Eric Chelle of Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on September 6, 2025 in Uyo, Nigeria. [Photo Credit/ ImagoxAkpan Nsidibe].
Looking forward to the game, the former Kayserispor goalkeeper urged the players to pray for a favourable result between South Africa and Rwanda.
“I am sure the players are self-motivated to get the job done against Benin on Tuesday.
“They are mentally and psychologically ready to pick the three points and pray that the other result between South Africa and Rwanda will be in our favour,” he concluded.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria celebrate winning the Unity Cup during the Unity Cup Final, London 2025 match between Jamaica and Nigeria at Gtech Community Stadium, Brentford. [Photo Credit/ Imago].
Kick off is slated for 5:00 PM WAT at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with 90 minutes left to decide if Nigeria will be absent from two consecutive FIFA World Cups.
