Don't change the lineup — Ikpeba advises Eric Chelle ahead of Gabon clash

Super Eagles legend Victor Ikpeba has given Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle some crucial advice ahead of the must-win game against Gabon. Victor Ikpeba has strongly advised Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to maintain faith in the team that recently secured a dominant 4-0 victory against the Cheetahs of Benin. That significant win helped the Super Eagles earn a crucial berth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.Chelle’s side is now set to face the Panthers of Gabon in the high-stakes semi-final of the playoffs in Rabat, Morocco. Ikpeba stressed that continuity is vital for the Super Eagles boss, given the positive momentum established. “You don’t change a winning team,” Ikpeba told SuperSport. He emphasised the gravity of the upcoming fixture, highlighting the national team's need to secure qualification after recent disappointments. “It’s a second chance for us to qualify for the World Cup. We have to get it right this time, especially as we did not qualify for Qatar 2022,” Ikpeba stated. There is tremendous pressure on Chelle ahead of this game, especially with the Super Eagles' failure to qualify for the last World Cup. Meanwhile, Chelle has announced his squad for the upcoming clash, with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and more expected to lead the nation's charge.