‘I want to win AFCON’ - Chelle warns other countries that he is coming for the trophy

The 35th edition of the continental tournament, set to kick off next month, is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent memory. 

With a host of formidable teams, including reigning champions Ivory Coast, Senegal, Egypt, and hosts Morocco, the 2025 AFCON is poised to be a thrilling spectacle.

Nigeria will be looking to win the tournament after losing in the final in 2023, with the hope of winning it for the first time since 2013.

Chelle believes his experience can end the nation's 12-year wait for continental success.

In an interview with CAFOnline.com, the Franco-Malian coach expressed his ambition. "Of course we want to win it. 

When asked what headline he hopes to see after the AFCON final, Chelle's response was simple and direct: "Nigeria, champions of Africa."

“Personally, I want to win AFCON. My last—and first—AFCON was a fantastic experience," Chelle stated. "I think Morocco will be a great tournament, too. The players feel the same."

"There are big teams: Morocco are favourites, Tunisia, Côte d’Ivoire… nations in top form," he acknowledged. 

"Our strength is that the players have suffered, then found a way through. That can really hurt opponents."

Before the Super Eagles can fully focus on their AFCON campaign, they face the immediate challenge of securing a path to the 2026 World Cup. 

Having missed out on automatic qualification, Nigeria must navigate a demanding playoff route. Their journey begins with a match against Gabon on November 13. 

A victory would set up a decisive clash against either Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the Intercontinental playoffs next March.