Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has praised his players after Nigeria defeated Egypt on Saturday evening to claim the AFCON bronze medal, suggesting that a loss could have jeopardised his future with the team.

Nigeria secured a 4-2 penalty shootout victory over the Pharaoh's at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca after regular time ended goalless. 

Speaking after the third-place playoff, Chelle admitted that defeat in the match could have put his future with the team in doubt. 

"It will be very difficult, if we lose the game, for me to continue to be a coach," Chelle said. "I was so disappointed for my guys because they gave everything during this AFCON."

The Malian tactician, who led Nigeria through a challenging period, praised the players for their dedication and resilience since taking charge of the team.

"At this moment, I am very proud of them. I am very proud to be the coach of Nigeria," he noted. "We have everything during one month for this tournament and everything during twelve months. This is so good right now because we did lots of work with the players."

Chelle also acknowledged the challenges of managing the team as a foreign coach, stressing that he placed high demands on the players.

"You know it is not easy when a French guy comes and I was so demanding with them," he said. "I am very proud of them, they gave everything for me and for sure they win my respect for life."

While celebrating Nigeria’s third-place finish, Chelle admitted to mixed emotions over missing out on the title.

"Very happy for the third place and disappointed not to bring the trophy. We don't know what will happen in the future, maybe I will bring in two years or maybe not," he said. 

Chelle fell short of his target of guiding Nigeria to the AFCON final and is expected to hold talks with the NFF after the tournament to determine his future. 

Adeyemi Adewale