The man who has resurrected Nigeria’s World Cup dream is Eric Chelle.
The Malian became the first non-Nigerian African to take charge of the Super Eagles when he was appointed in January.
He has gone unbeaten in six competitive games, with four wins and two draws, and Iwobi says the 48-year-old has installed a positive atmosphere among the squad.
“Our manager constantly reminds us that we’re able to push through all circumstances,” explained the Fulham midfielder.
“He’s such a great man. We almost don’t see him as like a manager, but like a big brother. He’s created a big brotherhood.
“You see him on the touchline. He gets heated – he’s literally trying to fight for us.
“It motivates us, that we want to play not just for Nigeria but for him as well.”
Iwobi also had a message for fans who have been unhappy with the team’s qualifying campaign up until now.
“It wasn’t the greatest of starts,” he acknowledged with knowing understatement.
“But they (the fans) also need to understand we all have the same goal.
“I understand when they’re disappointed because we are very disappointed in not winning games comfortably or winning against teams that maybe we should have.
“We feel like on any day, if we give 100%, and we’ve got the players to do so, that we can beat any team.
“But there’s one thing saying it, we have to prove it.”
*Alex Iwobi was speaking to BBC Sport Africa at the Best of Africa Awards
