Peseiro takes swipe at Chelle as ex-Porto boss unimpressed by Super Eagles’ AFCON bronze

Former Super Eagles coach José Peseiro has aimed a subtle dig at current boss Eric Chelle after Nigeria finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Afrik-Foot reports.

The former Porto and Braga manager insists that his own Super Eagles run to the final in 2023 remains a stronger achievement.

Peseiro was relieved of his duties in early 2024 following Nigeria’s narrow defeat to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the 2023 AFCON final. Although the team lost 2-1, that campaign marked Nigeria’s first appearance in the final since their title-winning triumph in 2013.

In contrast, Chelle, who took charge in 2025, led the Super Eagles to a bronze medal after falling short in the semi-finals against host nation Morocco. Nigeria eventually beat Egypt in the third-place playoff to secure a podium finish.

Despite Chelle receiving praise for his team’s exciting attacking football and record-breaking goal tally in the competition, Peseiro believes the focus should remain on achieving the highest possible finish rather than settling for third place.

“Nigeria is a major footballing power in Africa, and every tournament brings high expectations. You are expected to reach the AFCON final, and we accomplished that two years ago, our best finish in a long time,” Peseiro said as per BSNsports.

Peseiro v Chelle: Different styles, different outcomes

Under Eric Chelle, Nigeria produced one of their most entertaining AFCON campaigns in recent history. The team played a more open and attacking style, finishing top of their group with a perfect record after wins against Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Their journey, however, ended in heartbreak in the semi-finals, where they were held to a goalless draw by Morocco before losing on penalties. Chelle’s side bounced back to defeat Egypt via a 4-2 penalty shootout in the bronze medal match.

By comparison, Peseiro’s 2023 team adopted a more cautious and defensive approach, especially in the knockout rounds. While they did not dominate the group stage in the same way, finishing second after an opening draw against Equatorial Guinea, they showed resilience and tactical discipline to reach the final.

The key difference between both campaigns lies in how far the team progressed. Peseiro’s side went one step further by reaching the final, while Chelle’s team fell just short at the semi-final stage.

Still, Chelle’s approach has won admirers for its boldness and attacking intent, with many pointing to the team’s improved goal output as a sign of progress.

The Nigeria Football Federation is keen to extend the contract of the former Mali international defender ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.