Super Eagles: Chelle reveals why Ronaldo, others should be worried ahead of Portugal, Poland games

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has sent a defiant message ahead of next month’s high-profile international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Nigeria heads into these fixtures brimming with confidence, fresh off their 2026 Unity Cup triumph in London.

The three-time African champions produced dominant performances against Zimbabwe and Jamaica, showing the depth of the squad.

Although that tournament has a roster of majorly fringe players, Chelle’s signature tactical blueprint was unmistakable: high-intensity pressing, quick turnovers in the final third, and a disciplined approach to dismantling plays from opponents.

​With the Unity Cup success secured, Chelle is shifting his focus to the rigorous tests against Portugal and Poland.

These matches promise to be significant challenges, given the caliber of the opposition. Poland boasts a some talent, including Robert Lewandowski, Piotr Zielinski, and Matty Cash, while Portugal remains one of the world’s most star-studded outfits, featuring elite players such as Bruno Fernandes, Nuno Mendes, João Félix, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

​“Super Eagles are going to war” – Eric Chelle

​Looking ahead to the upcoming clashes, Chelle noted that his side will maintain their intensity and fighting spirit. For the Franco-Malian tactician, these matches carry extra personal weight following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

​”We are going to fight—we are going to war,” Chelle declared. “If we win, we win; if we lose, we lose. But they will have to work hard if they want to beat us.”

​Acknowledging the quality of the opposition, Chelle added, “Poland is a good team, and Portugal is among the best in the world. It is a great challenge for us. We are going to their home turf to beat them. I am still disappointed that we missed out on the World Cup, so securing wins against such giants would be a significant milestone for me personally.”

​The Super Eagles will first face Poland in Warsaw on June 3rd, before traveling to Leiria to take on Portugal on June 10th.