Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-26 04:00:04
An upcoming meeting of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive board will determine the next Super Eagles manager as the team continues under interim coach, Finidi George, following the departure of Jose Peseiro after the team’s second-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. More than 50 coaches have applied for the position, with the NFF aiming to have a new coach in place before the crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
The NFF is facing pressure from various parties advocating for their preferred candidates for the coaching position. While some board members are considering George due to his impressive performance in the role, others, led by APC Governors’ Forum chairman, Hope Uzodinma, are pushing for former Super Eagles player, Emmanuel Amunike, to take the helm. Other notable candidates include Daniel Amokachi, Henry Makinwa, Sunday Oliseh, Ndubuisi Egbo, Sylvanus Okpalla, and Michael Nsien.
In the upcoming match against Mali, the Super Eagles will be without injured players Calvin Bassey and Frank Onyeka, adding to the absence of key players like Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, William Ekong, Olaoluwa Aina, Zaidu Sanusi, Gabriel Osho, Tyronne Ebuehi, and Taiwo Awoniyi. Despite these setbacks, interim coach George remains optimistic about the team’s chances, building on the momentum from their recent victory over Ghana.
George emphasized the team’s determination to secure another win in their upcoming match against Mali and maintain a winning mentality as they prepare for World Cup qualifiers in June. The coach’s own history with the Super Eagles, particularly his final appearance against Mali in 2002, adds a personal connection to the upcoming game.
Mali has also shown strength with a 2-0 victory over Mauritania ahead of their match against Nigeria. The NFF’s decision on the next Super Eagles manager will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s future as they aim to continue their success on the international stage. With various candidates vying for the position, the board and technical committee are working diligently to ensure a wise choice that will benefit the team in the long run.
