Austin Eguavoen, the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has denied stepping down as the interim coach of the Super Eagles following the two 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Eguavoen was appointed to manage these matches after the NFF was unable to secure German coach Bruno Labbadia due to stringent German tax regulations.
A statement announcing his appointment noted;
“In the event, Technical Director of Nigeria Football Federation, Coach Augustine Eguavoen, will now take charge of the Super Eagles for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin Republic (Uyo, September 7) and Rwanda (Kigali, September 10).”
The 59-year-old led Nigeria to a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, last Saturday, but was held to a goalless draw by Rwanda on Tuesday.
Despite reports suggesting he had stepped down after the draw in Kigali, Eguavoen has refuted these claims. Speaking upon arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, he stated,
“It’s unfortunate that incorrect stories are circulating. In our current situation, we need to avoid negativity.”
He clarified;
“I only mentioned discussing with the NFF’s hierarchy about the next steps after these games. I was concerned when I saw those reports. Everything people are reading is not accurate. I’m still very much in charge as the Technical Director of the NFF, responsible for leading the Super Eagles at this time.”