Nigeria Vs Benin Republic: Eric Chelle bars media as Super Eagles train behind closed doors

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has decided to keep the team’s training session on Sunday closed to both journalists and fans as preparations intensify for Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic.

The training session took place at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where the team is camping ahead of the encounter.

Nigeria’s delegation  comprising players, coaches, and backroom staff  arrived safely in Uyo on Sunday morning from Polokwane, South Africa, where they played against Lesotho.

Their trip was slightly delayed following a cracked windscreen incident on their chartered flight, but all members of the team eventually arrived safely.

According to the Super Eagles’ media officer, Promise Efoghe, Sunday’s training was strictly behind closed doors to allow the coaching crew to focus fully on tactical work and team coordination without distractions.

However, he explained that the first 15 minutes of the team’s Tuesday training session would be open to the media for photo and interview opportunities.

Chelle and his technical team plan to conduct a full official training session on Monday evening at 6:30 p.m., which will serve as the team’s final preparation before the big match.

Nigeria is scheduled to play Benin Republic on Tuesday at 5 p.m. Nigerian time at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

The match is expected to draw huge attention as the Super Eagles aim to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Team sources say Chelle’s decision to restrict media access was made to ensure maximum concentration and to fine-tune strategies for the must-win encounter.