Former NFF Technical Director James Peter criticized the appointment of Austin Eguavoen as the interim coach of the Super Eagles ahead of the AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda. Peter labeled Eguavoen a "serial failure," citing past disappointments, including the failure to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Interim coach Austin Eguavoen faces mounting criticism ahead of the Super Eagles' crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda. James Peter, a former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, expressed his doubts about Eguavoen's appointment, labeling it a "wind that blows nobody any good."
Peter's concerns stem from Eguavoen's past failures, including the team's inability to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This is Eguavoen's fourth term in charge of the national team, having previously coached from 2005 to 2007, 2010, and in 2022. Many fans are still reeling from the disappointment of the World Cup failure, leading to skepticism about Eguavoen's leadership.
Speaking on a radio program, Peter stated, "We are walking on a tightrope, and I don’t think Eguavoen has the capacity; and at this stage, it’s a hopeless situation." He criticized the NFF's decision-making process and urged them to reconsider their choice of Eguavoen, calling him a "serial failure" unfit for the high-pressure role.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their opener against Benin on September 7, Peter’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among fans and analysts who question Eguavoen’s competence. With 21 players already in camp, the pressure is on Eguavoen to prove his critics wrong and deliver a successful campaign.
