Super Eagles manager Eric Chelle has lauded the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a tournament of exceptional quality, describing it as superior to some European leagues and a key platform for developing African football.

Chelle, who is leading Nigeria at the ongoing AFCON in Morocco, urged for the advancement of football across Africa, expressing his pleasure at the growing trust of football federations in African coaches to lead their teams at the AFCON tournament in Morocco.

Speaking ahead of Nigeria's crucial Group C clash against Tunisia, the Malian tactician emphasized the importance of fostering a unique African football identity and improving coaching standards across the continent.

 "I am very happy about that first because the African coach, they are very good. We have to create our own identity. I speak about Africa - I don't speak about only one nation," he said.

"We have to create our identity, we have to do something about our tournaments, about this AFCON.

"For me this AFCON is better than the league in Europe. This is very important. We have to continue to improve for all of the coaches in Africa.

"This is great. After that, when all of the coaches improve very well, we can try to go to Europe or the World."

Thirteen African coaches are at the helm of various teams in the current biennial tournament in Morocco, marking the first time in AFCON history that African coaches make up the majority of managers leading teams in the competition.

Meanwhile, Nigeria, currently second in Group C behind Tunisia on goal difference, will be eager to secure a win over the Carthage Eagles to strengthen their chances of advancing to the knockout stage as group leaders.

Chelle will also be determined to lead the Super Eagles to AFCON glory, aiming to claim Nigeria's fourth continental title, especially after the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale