- Augustine Eguavoen has denied reports of his resignation, which surfaced after the Super Eagles’ goalless draw with Rwanda
- The coach clarified that no decision on his future has been made yet, as discussions with the NFF were pending
- Eguavoen said he remained focused on helping the Super Eagles qualify for the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament
Reports swirled in on Tuesday night, September 10, that Super Eagles interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen had resigned from his role following Nigeria’s goalless draw against Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
However, Eguavoen has swiftly denied these claims, clarifying that no such decision has been made and that he remains fully in charge of the national team.
After leading the Super Eagles to a commanding 3-0 win over Benin Republic last Saturday, Eguavoen’s side failed to replicate that attacking prowess against a resolute Rwandan team. Despite dominating possession and creating several goal-scoring opportunities, Nigeria could not find the back of the net, settling for a draw in Kigali.
Speculation began circulating that the 59-year-old had stepped down from his position. Some media outlets, notably OwnGoalNigeria, reported that Eguavoen’s tenure had come to an abrupt end after just two matches, citing his post-match comments about his mandate concluding. However, the former Super Eagles player has debunked these rumours.
Addressing the situation, Eguavoen expressed frustration over the false reports, noting that such misinformation could harm the team’s morale.
“It’s quite unfortunate that people just trigger something that is not correct. And the situation we are in now, we don’t need negative stories, but when I saw that story [about my resignation], I was worried. Whatever people are reading out there is not correct.”
Eguavoen further confirmed that he remains in his role, not only as the interim head coach but also in his capacity as the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
“I’m still very much in charge. I’m the Technical Director of the NFF, saddled with the responsibility of taking the Super Eagles at this moment,” he explained.
Eguavoen’s appointment came after the NFF parted ways with former assistant coach Finidi George in June. With no permanent replacement appointed since, Eguavoen was asked to step in for the AFCON qualifiers, overseeing a mix of victories and frustrating results. His leadership has drawn mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike, with many praising the Super Eagles’ defensive strength but criticising their lack of skillfulness up front, especially against Rwanda Wasps.
The coach hinted that discussions with the NFF will determine his future, but for now, he remains focused on guiding the team through their remaining qualifiers.
“I have to sit down with the NFF and decide the next line of action,” he added, stating categorically that the decision on whether he will continue for the next round of qualifiers is yet to be made.
With the October qualifiers against Libya around the corner, Eguavoen’s immediate task is to address the team’s inconsistencies and improve their finishing.
The Super Eagles currently sit in a decent position in their group with 4 points in two games, but questions remain about their ability to handle stronger opposition as the AFCON tournament draws nearer.
For now, all eyes will remain on Eguavoen and the Super Eagles as they look to return to winning ways and seal their qualification for the 2025 AFCON.
Super Eagles announces team for September AFCON qualifiers game
Previously, TheRadar reported that the Super Eagles of Nigeria had announced their squad for September’s African Cup of Nations qualifiers, with Napoli’s Victor Osimhen included among the 23 players selected.
These upcoming fixtures against Benin Republic and Rwanda on September 7 and 10, respectively, would serve as the first challenge for new head coach Bruno Labbadia, who recently took over the reins of the national team.
