Super Eagles: Why Algeria want Eric Chelle to quit Nigeria after World Cup 2026 exit

Algeria’s journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32 in Vancouver, Canada, Afrik-Foot reports.

That loss has seemingly increased pressure on head coach Vladimir Petković despite the team’s historic run to the knockout stage.

Switzerland made a fast start and took the lead in the 10th minute through Breel Embolo. The Swiss doubled their advantage just after the break when Dan Ndoye scored in the 46th minute, leaving Algeria with a mountain to climb.

Although Algeria controlled about 55 per cent of the ball, Petković admitted after the match that his side paid the price for defensive mistakes and tactical errors. Those problems had already appeared during the group stage, where the Desert Foxes conceded seven goals before reaching the knockout rounds.

The defeat has led to strong reactions from supporters on social media. Many fans believe a squad filled with experienced players and top European-based stars should have gone much further in the competition.

The disappointment became even greater when captain Riyad Mahrez announced his retirement from international football after the match, bringing an end to the career of Algeria’s greatest player in modern times.

Interestingly, Algerian Football Federation (FAF) extended Petković’s contract until 2028 just before the tournament started. Despite the Desert Foxes’ failure to reach the semifinal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, it was believed that Petković had made appreciable progress since taking charge in 2024.

The Bosnian manager helped Algeria qualify for the World Cup after a 12-year absence and reach the knockout stage for only the second time. But as important as that achievement is, it may not be enough to save his job.

Algeria eye Eric Chelle as FAF search for a new direction

According to a FootMercato report, the Algerian Football Federation has already identified Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle as the leading candidate if changes are eventually made to their coaching setup.

The report claims the FAF have contacted the Franco-Malian coach following Algeria’s World Cup exit because they remain impressed by his tactical work since taking over the Super Eagles.

One of the biggest reasons for that admiration is said to be Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Algeria in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Chelle was widely praised for preparing Nigeria well for that match and finding a way to stop the Desert Foxes’ strong attacking unit.

Chelle is also no stranger to Algerian football. Before becoming Nigeria coach in January 2025, he managed MC Oran in the Algerian Ligue 1. During that period, he learned about the country’s football culture, local league, players and the high expectations that come with coaching in North Africa.

The report also pointed at his ability to manage big personalities. With the Super Eagles, Chelle has worked with elite stars such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and several experienced internationals. Algeria are now entering a new era following Mahrez’s international retirement, where Chelle’s leadership skills would be needed to unite senior players while helping younger talents settle into the squad.

Finally, his style of football is believed to suit Algeria’s traditional identity. Chelle prefers attacking football, encourages his teams to dominate possession and likes quick passing and movement.

However, bringing Chelle back to Algeria would not be easy. That is mainly because his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was renewed last month and now also includes responsibility for the Olympic Eagles. Any move would therefore require discussions between the FAF and the NFF, who are keen to keep him after Nigeria finished third at the 2025 AFCON.