Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has urged his team to improve despite securing a 2-0 victory over Rwanda’s Amavubi in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match on Friday.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, the Malian tactician praised his players for their performance against a resilient Rwandan side but stressed that there is still work to be done ahead of their next fixture against Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday.

“I just want to say it was a difficult game because Rwanda is a good side. I know the coach, he is a good coach. We made a great game too,” Chelle said.

The Super Eagles boss highlighted the team’s preparation, revealing that they had conducted intensive video analysis and tactical training sessions to counter Rwanda’s strategy.

“I am so happy and proud of my players, my guys, and the Nigerian people,” he added.

Chelle noted that Nigeria controlled possession in the second half and experimented with different tactical setups. However, he admitted that while the win was deserved, the team still has areas to improve.

“We played two to three systems. I am happy now because this is just one game. We have some weaknesses and some strengths, and my job is to think about the game project,” he concluded.

The victory puts Nigeria in a strong position in the World Cup qualifiers, but Chelle’s focus remains on refining the squad’s performance as they prepare to face bottom-placed Zimbabwe in their next match.

Osun State, Nigeria – A fresh royal dispute has erupted between the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, over allegations of a deliberate attempt to undermine the Oluwo.

Oba Akanbi accused the Ooni of orchestrating his suspension from the Osun State Council of Obas, despite his claims of innocence. He also alleged that Ooni Ogunwusi publicly embarrassed him before Governor Ademola Adeleke at a recent traditional council meeting.

In a detailed statement, the Oluwo recounted his past relationship with the Ooni, revealing that he played a significant role in Ogunwusi’s ascension to the throne in 2015. He claimed that he facilitated the resolution of a court case that had threatened the Ooni’s kingship.

“To my surprise, the same person I helped to the throne has been planning evil against me,” Oluwo said. “He orchestrated my suspension from the Osun State Council of Obas and is using some kings in Iwoland to destabilize my territory.”

Oluwo further accused the Ooni of fueling opposition against him, including attempts to remove him as monarch and using his former wife against him. However, he insisted that his position as Oluwo remains secure.

Ooni’s Palace Responds

Reacting to the allegations, the Ooni’s spokesperson, Otunba Moses Olafare, dismissed the claims as “baseless and reckless.” He argued that Oluwo’s suspension was a result of his own actions, including allegedly fighting a fellow monarch in public.

“The Ooni could not have plotted his suspension; it was his recklessness that led to it,” Olafare stated. “A committee investigated the matter and recommended his suspension.”

He also refuted claims that the Ooni sought to embarrass Oluwo, saying the Ife monarch only advised him to respect traditional religion.

“When he was to become the Oluwo, the Ooni supported him, provided financial assistance, and even gave a car to honor his enthronement. Oluwo needs to focus on real issues,” Olafare added.

The dispute has stirred reactions within the Yoruba traditional leadership, with observers watching closely for further developments.