Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has expressed confidence ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly against Portugal, insisting that his team has the quality to compete with any opponent.
Nigeria will face Portugal in a high-profile friendly match in Leiria on Wednesday, with both sides expected to use the encounter to evaluate their squads and refine tactical approaches ahead of future competitive fixtures.
Speaking before the game, Chelle dismissed suggestions that the Super Eagles would approach the match as underdogs, stressing that Nigeria remains a formidable force in international football.
“We are not a small opponent. We come into the game with our strengths and weaknesses,” the Malian tactician said.
Chelle noted that his focus is not on comparisons between the two teams but on ensuring that his players continue to embrace and execute his football philosophy.
“This is not a question of who is the best team. I’m only thinking about our style and our philosophy,” he stated.
The former Mali coach also expressed excitement about the fixture, describing it as a contest that should provide quality football and valuable lessons for both teams.
The friendly presents another opportunity for the Super Eagles coach to further imprint his tactical identity on the national team as Nigeria continues preparations for upcoming international assignments.
