Austin Eguavoen, the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has vehemently denied reports claiming he had stepped down as the interim coach of the Super Eagles. The denial comes after Nigeria’s recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Eguavoen, who was appointed to lead the team for these crucial qualifiers, addressed the rumors upon arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. “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,” he stated during a media interaction.
The 59-year-old coach was brought in as a temporary solution after the NFF failed to secure the services of German coach Bruno Labbadia, citing complications with German tax laws. Under Eguavoen’s guidance, Nigeria secured a convincing 3-0 victory against Benin Republic in Uyo, followed by a goalless draw with Rwanda in Kigali.
Speculation about Eguavoen’s position arose after the Rwanda match, with some reports suggesting he had stepped down. However, the coach clarified that his previous comments had been misinterpreted. “I only talked about sitting down with the hierarchy of the federation after these two games and we will see how to go about prosecuting the next games,” Eguavoen explained.
He further emphasized his ongoing role, stating, “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.”
The Super Eagles are now preparing for their next challenge – a double header against Libya in the AFCON qualifiers scheduled for next month. With Eguavoen confirming his continued leadership, the team hopes to maintain their momentum in their bid to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
