By Milcah Tanimu
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are preparing to begin their quest for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification, with plans to open their camp in Uyo on September 1, 2024. The team is gearing up for crucial matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Team officials have confirmed that the backroom staff will arrive in Uyo on September 1, with most of the invited players expected to join soon after. The first match will see the Super Eagles face the Cheetahs of Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on September 7, with kickoff scheduled for 5 pm. Following this, the team will travel to Rwanda for their second qualifier, set to take place three days later.
However, the Super Eagles face uncertainty as they approach these critical matches without a permanent head coach. Finidi George, the former head coach, departed in June, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to appoint a successor. In the interim, Austin Eguavoen, the NFF’s Technical Director, is expected to oversee the team for the upcoming qualifiers.
The NFF is reportedly considering several long-term coaching options, including former Sweden coach Janne Andersson and Hervé Renard, who has extensive experience in African football, having successfully managed teams like Zambia, Angola, Ivory Coast, and Morocco.
As the three-time African champions, Nigeria is a strong contender to qualify for the tournament in Morocco, with hopes of winning their first AFCON title since 2013. Despite the coaching uncertainty, the Super Eagles remain focused on securing their spot in the tournament and potentially reclaiming the continental crown.