Chelle also noted that Portugal, who have never lifted the World Cup trophy in their history, could finally break the jinx this year.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has offered an explanation as to why Portugal arranged their upcoming friendly match against Nigeria ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Portugal and the Super Eagles will face off at the 29,000-capacity Estádio Dr Magalhães Pessoa in Leiria on Wednesday at 8:45 PM Nigerian time.
While Nigeria will be playing their final match of the June international break, their hosts will be playing their last preparation match before heading to the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Despite parading an array of talented players over the years, the Seleção das Quinas has not been able to get over the line and win the global tournament.
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However, many pundits have tipped Roberto Martínez’s men as one of the favourites this time around, adding that the team could finally go all the way.
Wading into the discussion, Chelle noted that Portugal, who have never lifted the World Cup trophy in their history, could finally break the jinx this year.
He said: “This team, in one month, can be the next world champion. This is a big chance for us to play against Portugal in their country.”
Addressing why he felt the European team chose Nigeria as their opponent, the Super Eagles gaffer suggested they likely wanted to acclimatise to the physicality of African teams, given that their World Cup group includes the DR Congo.
Chelle said: “I think they want to play an African team because of the intensity of the game. I speak about physicality, so this is a good opportunity to play against us.”
He added: “We played against DR Congo in the World Cup play-offs and we lost on penalties. Maybe they want to see the way they can play against them.”
Portugal, who earlier played South American side Chile in a friendly, will face Colombia, debutants Uzbekistan, and DR Congo in Group K.
