4 days ago
7 The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) remains determined to appoint a foreign coach for the Super Eagles despite Augustine Eguavoen’s impressive performance with the team, Completesports.com reports.
The NFF had announced plans to bring in a foreign technical adviser in June after the Super Eagles’ poor showing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
This decision prompted the resignation of the former Head Coach, Finidi George, who had taken over temporarily following the departure of Portuguese tactician José Peseiro in February.
After leading the team to a win and a loss in friendlies against Ghana and Mali in March, Finidi was confirmed as the substantive head coach in May. However, his tenure was short-lived as the NFF appointed former Germany international Bruno Labbadia as his successor on 27 August. Labbadia declined the role the very next day.
Eguavoen, the NFF’s Technical Director, was then asked to step in and oversee the Super Eagles’ 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. Under his guidance, the team secured three wins and two draws from five games, ensuring a smooth qualification for Morocco 2025.
The Super Eagles will conclude their qualifiers with a game against Rwanda’s Amavubi at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday.
Foreign Coach Still a Priority
Despite Eguavoen’s success, a reliable NFF source told Completesports.com that the search for a foreign coach remains a top priority.
“There is still a strong belief among the top brass in the NFF that an expatriate coach is the best option for the Super Eagles,” the source, who requested anonymity, revealed.
“Even the House Committee on Sports is firmly backing this move. They believe bringing in a highly skilled foreign tactician will benefit the team. The major challenge, however, is securing funds to pay the coach’s salary, but efforts to find sponsors have been encouraging.”
The source further disclosed that while AFCON 2024 qualifiers conclude on Monday, the NFF’s primary focus will shift to the World Cup qualifiers starting next year.
World Cup Challenges Ahead
If the NFF follows through with this plan, the new coach will face a tough task reviving Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles are currently fifth in Group C, with three points from four games — four points behind group leaders Rwanda. Their next qualifier is an away match against Rwanda in March 2024.
“It will undoubtedly be a herculean task for any new coach, but qualification remains achievable,” the source added.
“Several members of the current technical crew will likely stay on to assist, which will make the transition smoother. Augustine Eguavoen, being an NFF staff member, will also be available to support the team.”
By Adeboye Amosu
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