Nigeria held a closed-door training session on Sunday as the Super Eagles intensified their preparations for their matchday 6 Group C clash against Zimbabwe in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set for Tuesday in Uyo. This decision marks a sharp contrast to previous training routines under former coaches like Gernot Rohr and José Peseiro, where media and journalists were occasionally allowed access to the team’s training sessions. However, under the guidance of current head coach Eric Chelle, strict restrictions have been imposed on the team’s camp, ensuring full focus and concentration ahead of the highly anticipated fixture.

Unlike in past campaigns, where access to training was somewhat lenient, Chelle’s strategy is to block any potential distractions in order to ensure that the team can focus on their goals. As a result, media presence and visitors have been entirely prohibited during this crucial phase of preparation. The Super Eagles are keen on capitalizing on their recent success, which includes a hard-fought 2-0 win over Rwanda, and remain determined to build on their momentum as they aim for victory in this important qualifier.

Chelle Tightens Control Over Camp

Team Media Officer Promise Efoghe spoke on the coach's decision to enforce strict discipline within the camp. Efoghe stated that Coach Chelle is fully aware of the importance of keeping the team focused and not allowing complacency after their win against Rwanda. “The Eagles are back home and have started preparing for Tuesday’s fixture,” Efoghe remarked. “Coach Eric Chelle is not carried away by the win over Rwanda and is demanding maximum concentration from the players prior to the next game.”

He further explained, “To this end, he has imposed restrictions in and around the team’s camp, no visitors, no journalists,” underlining the emphasis on achieving peak performance ahead of Tuesday’s vital encounter.

The Super Eagles arrived in Uyo on Saturday, while Zimbabwe’s squad touched down just a few hours later at the Victor Attah International Airport, with both teams gearing up for the important match. Nigeria’s focus is on continuing to improve in the qualifiers, while Zimbabwe remains in search of their first victory after a series of disappointing results.

Training Schedule and Media Access

The team’s training schedule for Sunday included two private sessions, with no media presence allowed. On Monday, a similar approach will be adopted, although the media will be granted a brief 15-minute window to observe the training session following the official pre-match press conference. This limited access aims to maintain the team’s privacy while still giving the media an opportunity to interact with players and coaches.

“Sunday’s training is closed. Monday’s session will be opened for the mandatory 15 minutes and this will be shortly after the official press conference. Provisions will be made for mixed zone interaction with the players on match day,” Efoghe added.

Super Eagles Push for Momentum

With their 2-0 victory over Rwanda, Nigeria aims to build momentum and move up in the standings. This victory, their first of the qualifiers, was a crucial turning point after a frustrating start that saw them collect three draws and a loss in their previous matches. The Super Eagles are determined to keep this positive momentum going, with the Zimbabwe clash providing a perfect opportunity to solidify their standing in the group.

Zimbabwe, on the other hand, is still searching for their first win in the qualifiers, having recorded three draws and two losses. Their last match, a thrilling 2-2 draw against Benin, showed signs of resilience, but they will need to improve significantly if they are to challenge Nigeria. The first-leg encounter between the two sides ended in a 1-1 draw, with Kelechi Iheanacho scoring a vital equalizer for the Super Eagles.

Currently, Nigeria sits fourth in Group C with six points, while Zimbabwe remains at the bottom of the table with just three points. The Warriors are desperate to end a lengthy winless run against Nigeria, with their last victory over the Super Eagles dating back to 1981. With just a few more games left in the qualifiers, both teams understand the significance of this match as the Super Eagles look to secure a vital three points to boost their World Cup hopes. A loss or draw would severely damage Nigeria’s chances of qualification, making this match a must-win encounter for Coach Chelle’s team.