Super Eagles assistant coach Eric Chelle has encouraged his players to be bold and strong when playing, warning them not to act weak on the pitch. This was revealed by Sola Adelani, one of the players in Nigeria’s team for the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Sola Adelani, who plays for Ikorodu City, is part of the team B squad representing Nigeria in the upcoming CHAN tournament. The competition is set to kick off on Saturday, August 2, 2025, in Zanzibar.

Adelani said it has always been his goal to wear the Nigerian jersey. He expressed great excitement and said he is proud to finally achieve his dream of playing for the national team.

He praised coach Eric Chelle’s style of leadership, especially how the coach motivates and encourages players during training and matches.

While speaking to journalists, Adelani shared one of Chelle’s common motivational messages. He said, “The coach tells us that only warriors can play football. If you act soft like a girl or like a weak boy on the field, your opponents will crush you. You need to play with the heart of a lion.”

Adelani added that Coach Chelle always pushes him to take on defenders confidently. “He always tells me, ‘Sola, when you get the ball, go for one-on-one battles. Even if you lose the ball, it’s okay. Just try,’” he said.

Nigeria has been grouped in Group D for CHAN 2025 and will face Senegal, Sudan, and Congo in the group stage.