Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has denied reports claiming he criticized the appointment of head coach Eric Chelle following Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria crashed out of the qualifiers after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time. 

In the aftermath of the disappointing result, reports circulated suggesting Oliseh had condemned Chelle's appointment.

However, the former Juventus and Borussia Dortmund midfielder clarified his stance in a post on X, insisting his comments were misinterpreted.

Oliseh explained that he did not attack Chelle's competence but merely expressed disappointment that a foreign coach was appointed ahead of a qualified Nigerian. 

He nonetheless commended the Malian tactician for his impact since taking charge of the team.

"Correction please, i didn't criticize the coach, watch the clip again, I was unhappy he was appointed instead of a qualified Nigerian, but so far he (Chelle) has done relatively well. Let's call a spade, a spade!," Oliseh wrote. 

With the World Cup ticket now out of reach, the Super Eagles will shift their focus to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Uganda, Tunisia and Tanzania.

Chelle is expected to unveil his provisional squad list in the coming days as he aims to lead the Super Eagles to a fourth continental title, following their runners-up finish in the last edition.

Adeyemi Adewale