The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to return to action for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, facing off against Benin and Rwanda. Yet, as the countdown to these crucial matches ticks away, the question remains; who will guide the team from the sidelines?

With just days to go, the Super Eagles remain without a coach following the resignation of Finidi George. It’s almost certain that they’ll march into these qualifiers without a permanent leader, relying instead on an interim coach to steer the ship.

Nigeria’s head coach Finidi George. (Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO/AFP via Getty Images)

Despite the uncertainty, preparations are already underway

According to reports, the team’s camp is scheduled to open on September 1 in Uyo, where the backroom staff will gather, setting the stage for the players to join shortly after.

The three-time African champions will first face Benin on September 7 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before heading to Kigali to battle Rwanda on September 10 at the Amahoro Stadium.

Who Will Lead the Charge?

Augustine Eguavoen (L) during the Africa Cup of Nations. (Photo by DANIEL BELOUMOU OLOMO/AFP via Getty Images)

All eyes are on Austin Eguavoen, the NFF’s Technical Director, who is set to temporarily helm the squad for these pivotal matches.

The NFF is cautiously exploring long-term coaching options, with notable names like former Sweden coach Janne Andersson and seasoned African football veteran Hervé Renard in the mix. However, they’re taking their time to make the right choice.

This wouldn’t be Eguavoen’s first rodeo. A familiar face to the Super Eagles, he’s served as caretaker coach during two previous stints first in 2010, and then from 2021 to 2022. He led the Super Eagles at AFCON 2021, reaching the round of 16 before being knocked out by Tunisia. 

He also guided the team during the World Cup qualifying playoffs against Ghana, where Nigeria fell short of securing a ticket to Qatar 2022.

Should he be confirmed to lead the team once again, Eguavoen brings valuable experience that could be crucial for the Super Eagles.

However, the NFF must act swiftly, solidifying their coaching plans to ensure the team is ready for the World Cup qualifiers in 2025. Time is running out, and the future of the Super Eagles hangs in the balance.