In a thrilling announcement late on Thursday, the Nigeria Football Federation, (NFF), has confirmed that Augustine Eguavoen will continue as the interim head coach of the Super Eagles. This pivotal decision comes just in time for the team’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Libya in October.
The 58-year-old , who also serves as the NFF's technical director, will be supported by a formidable coaching team comprising Fidelis Ilechukwu, Daniel Ogunmodede, Olatunji Baruwa, and Tomaz Zorec. Their collective expertise is poised to propel the three-time African champions forward in their quest for continental glory.
Coach Eguaveon stepped into the role after negotiations with German coach Bruno Labbadia fell through.
Eguavoen’s initial matches in charge saw the Super Eagles secure a resounding 3-0 victory over Benin Republic and a hard-fought scoreless draw against Rwanda. These results have cemented his position, with the NFF’s Executive Committee expressing confidence in his capabilities.
In a statement released by the NFF which reiterated their decision: “The Executive Committee of Nigeria Football Federation on Thursday approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee for the Federation’s Technical Director, coach Augustine Eguavoen to continue in his role as Head Coach of the Super Eagles, and lead the team in its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Libya next month."
“The 58-year-old, in temporary charge of the squad he had led three times previously, steered the three-time African champions to a 3-0 defeat of Benin Republic and a scoreless draw with Rwanda in matchdays 1 and 2 earlier this month."
However, Coach Eguavoen’s recent record speaks volumes, he has already guided the team to four points from their opening two matches, positioning Nigeria at the top of Group B.
Veteran Nigerian coach Samson Unuanel also made a case for Eguavoen saying:
"In football, we say a coach is only as good as his last match. Eguavoen coached one home game and one away, earning four points. The NFF should give him a chance, encourage him, and allow him to manage the national team for at least a year to see what he can achieve," he said while reflecting on his brief tenure.
The Nigerian team, which faced humiliation in a previous World Cup qualifier against the same Benin Republic, came out with renewed determination during their home match in Uyo.
“We have capable people to get the job done. Just look at the commitment from both the players and the coaches against Benin Republic and Rwanda. This is what we want to see, where everyone is fighting to ensure the country isn't let down."
“We lost to this same Benin Republic in a World Cup qualifier in Cote d’Ivoire. Hosting them in Uyo, the players had no option than to work hard and win because they know that Nigerians would not take it easy with them," he added.
Eguavoen highlighted this spirit: “It was a call to national duty; the players unitedly fought hard to secure the points, knowing that the nation was counting on them.”
Furthermore, as anticipation builds for the upcoming clash against Libya on October 6 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, fans expect Eguavoen’s leadership to inspire a winning streak, solidifying Nigeria’s place in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
In a parallel move to strengthen national football, the NFF’s Executive Committee has also appointed Justin Madugu as interim head coach of the Nigeria women’s football team, following the departure of Randy Waldrum. This dual coaching strategy marks a bold step toward revitalizing Nigeria's footballing fortunes on both fronts.
