Remembering Éric Chelle’s Viral Water Moment At AFCON 2023

In light of the Super Eagles roping in former Mali boss, Éric Chelle, as their new head coach, we revisit his evergreen viral moment from 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. 

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The story

Last year's Africa Cup of Nations showpiece in the Ivory Coast not only saw plenty of goals but also a host of funny, meme-able content that continues to feed the internet till this day. 

One of those hilarious viral moments at AFCON 2023 came from Éric Chelle. During Mali's heartbreaking defeat in quarter-finals, Chelle was seen with water poured over his head by his assistant to cool him off after his team lost control of the knockout tie.

The Eagles, having led 1-0 for most of the encounter, succumbed to a late collapse against the 10-man Ivory Coast, losing their advantage in stoppage time before falling to a 2-1 defeat after extra time.

After the clip of Chelle went viral across various social media platforms, the former Mali international explained the circumstances of the incident.

"After the Elephants' second goal, I started to feel dizzy, my blood pressure was rising. Thankfully, my compatriot poured enough water on my head to stabilize my blood pressure," noted Chelle, as quoted by Ghanasoccernet.com. 

Revisit the unforgettable viral moment below:

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On Wednesday, The Nigeria Football Federation has named Chelle, as the new manager of the Super Eagles, taking over from interim coach Augustin Eguavoen.

Chelle was in charge of the Eagles for just over two years before being dismissed in June 2024. Under his leadership, Mali reached the quarter-finals of the 2023 AFCON, topping Group E over Bronze medalists South Africa on their way to the last eight.