Super Eagles interim coach, Austin Eguavoen has addressed the misconception surrounding his involvement with the national team, clarifying that while this is technically his fourth stint, the duration of his previous tenures has often been brief.
Eguavoen’s first spell as Super Eagles coach came between 2006 and 2007, followed by a short-term role in 2010, and again in 2022.
Augustine Eguavoen (R) during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2021 round of 16 football match between Nigeria and Tunisia at Stade Roumde Adjia. (Photo by DANIEL BELOUMOU OLOMO/AFP via Getty Images)q
He recently took charge as interim coach in September 2024.
In an interview on Brila FM’s, “No Holds Barred with Ifeanyi Udeze”, Eguavoen stressed the importance of objective criticism and expressed frustration over the narrative that paints his involvement as a lengthy, recurring tenure.
“The general question to the country , will they be patient with me? Because people now say this is Eguavoen’s fourth stint as the Super Eagles coach, well agreed,” said the Coach.
Super Eagles coaches led by Austin Eguavoen during a training session. Photo | X (CoachDan_Ijabal)
“But to let the people know, the first time I ever coached the Eagles in 6 months was in 2006.
“And every other time, it was either two months, 2 games or 3. 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.”
He continued, “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. Let us be objective In our criticizing.”
Eguavoen is set to lead the Super Eagles in their upcoming double-header against Libya, with the NFF trusting him with the responsibility.
The first leg will take place in Uyo on October 11th, followed by the reverse fixture in Libya on October 15th.
Super Eagles players celebrate.
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The bigger question now is: If Eguavoen is eventually appointed on a long-term basis, can he deliver?
