Eric Chelle Urges CAF to Apply Rules Strictly Amid AFCON Final Controversy

Nigeria’s senior men’s national team head coach Eric Chelle has called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to strictly enforce its regulations in order to resolve the lingering controversy surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Morocco.

The final has continued to spark debate across the continent despite a ruling by CAF’s Disciplinary Committee. Morocco have reportedly appealed the decision, while Senegal accepted the verdict — a situation that has kept discussions and disagreements alive within African football circles.

Reacting to the developments, Chelle maintained a neutral stance but stressed that clarity and firm application of the laws of the game remain the only path to restoring credibility.

“What are the rules? I’m not taking sides,” Chelle said.

“As a player, if I leave the field to get a drink of water on the bench, it’s a yellow card. When you deliberately leave, there’s a penalty.”

The Franco-Malian tactician emphasized that consistent enforcement of regulations is vital to protecting the integrity of the sport.

“Whatever happens, decisions have to be made, and to make them, you have to know the rules and apply them. That way, we can put an end to all the controversy,” he added.

Chelle’s remarks echo growing calls from stakeholders across the continent for CAF to ensure transparency, fairness, and uniform application of its statutes in order to maintain trust in officiating and governance within African football competitions.