Interim Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has raised concerns about the prospect of taking on the coaching role permanently.
The 59-year-old tactician took charge after talks between the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and German coach Bruno Labbadia broke down.
Eguavoen, in his fourth stint as Super Eagles coach, led Nigeria to a convincing 3-0 win over Benin and a goalless draw against Rwanda in September’s international fixtures.
Despite these positive results, the former Gent defender has voiced his skepticism about accepting the role on a long-term basis, citing concerns about the patience of both fans and the NFF.
Eguavoen on misconceptions about his tenure with the Super Eagles
In an interview with Brila FM, Eguavoen said: “The general question to the country is, ‘Will they be patient with me?'
“Because people now say this is Eguavoen’s fourth stint as the Super Eagles coach, well, agreed. But to let the people know, the first time I ever coached the Eagles for six months was in 2006.
“Every other time, it was either two months, two games, or three. Then in Cameroon AFCON, it was from December to March also covering the World Cup. Then people say, ‘fourth stint of Eguavoen coaching,’ it is not 100% correct.
“How can people just say Eguavoen’s fourth stint with the Super Eagles? Have I ever coached the team for straight two years? All those saying ‘fourth stints’ should sit down and reflect. The only time I did six months was in 2006.”
Nigeria sits atop Group D in their qualification campaign with four points, followed by Benin on three, Rwanda with two, and Libya at the bottom with one point.
The upcoming matches will likely serve as a further test of Eguavoen’s suitability for the long-term role, as the Super Eagles continue their quest for a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
