Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has admitted that his side faces a tough challenge ahead of their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying clash against Libya.
However, the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has strongly refuted claims suggesting he is being considered for the position of Super Eagles head coach, describing the reports as “false” and “deeply hurtful.”
Eguavoen denies reports of coaching takeover
Speculations making the rounds in some media outlets alleged that Eguavoen, alongside Ladan Bosso, was being lined up to replace current coach Eric Chelle should the team fail to secure qualification for next year’s FIFA World Cup.
In a statement issued by the NFF Communications Department, Eguavoen expressed disappointment over the circulating rumours. He maintained that his relationship with Coach Chelle remains professional and cordial, emphasising that he has no desire to assume the coaching position.
“I feel very hurt by these unfounded rumours because I genuinely have no idea where they originated from,” Eguavoen said. “I enjoy a great working relationship with Coach Eric Chelle and have no interest whatsoever in taking over the team. My sincere wish is for him to succeed.”
Warns against division within Super Eagles management
The former national team coach also warned against attempts to create disunity within the Super Eagles’ management. He recalled similar experiences during the reigns of former coaches Gernot Rohr and José Peseiro, when similar rumours caused unnecessary tension.
“This is exactly how certain individuals tried to create division and misunderstanding between me and Gernot Rohr, and later José Peseiro,” Eguavoen said. “It is needless and counterproductive. We must all stay united to ensure the Super Eagles qualify for the World Cup and aim to lift the forthcoming AFCON trophy in Morocco.”
Focus turns to crucial World cup qualifiers
Eguavoen’s statement comes just a day before Nigeria’s must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho. The game is scheduled to kick off at 5 p.m. (Nigerian Time) on Friday, 10 October.