Former Nigerian int’l urges NFF to appoint new Super Eagles coach before 2025 AFCON qualifiers

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Dimeji Lawal, a former Nigerian international and Real Madrid B player, has emphasized the need for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to swiftly appoint a new head coach for the Super Eagles. The NFF has yet to announce a successor to Finidi George, who stepped down in June following a disappointing start to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Lawal expressed concern that the delay in appointing a new coach could affect the team’s performance in the upcoming 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign, which is just weeks away. He urged the NFF to expedite the appointment process, stating, “I really think the NFF must take a drastic decision in appointing a new coach for the Super Eagles since the qualifiers are around the corner.”

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Lawal highlighted the importance of giving the new coach adequate time to familiarize himself with the team, saying, “Delay in the appointment of a coach often affects the team’s performance because the coach does not have time to relate perfectly with the players.” He suggested that if a permanent appointment cannot be made, the NFF should consider appointing a coach on an interim basis.

The Super Eagles have been placed in a group with Rwanda, Benin, and Libya for the AFCON qualifiers, with only the top two teams from each group securing a spot in the tournament set to take place in Morocco in 2025.

The NFF has been in discussions with several foreign coaches, including Herve Renard, a two-time AFCON-winning tactician. However, the delay in appointing a new coach has raised concerns among fans and stakeholders.

Lawal’s comments come as the Super Eagles prepare for a crucial qualifying campaign. The team’s performance in the qualifiers will determine their chances of participating in the 2025 AFCON

The NFF must prioritize the appointment of a new head coach for the Super Eagles to ensure the team’s success in the upcoming AFCON qualifying campaign. The delay in appointing a new coach could have severe consequences for the team’s performance, and it is essential that the NFF takes swift action to address this issue.