Why I Didn’t Succeed As Super Eagles Coach

Finidi George has explained why he did not succeed as head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

After being appointed as interim coach, Finidi was handed the Eagles job on a permanent bases but left his role after just two competitive games.

In his first official game against South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the Eagles could only manage a 1-1 draw in Uyo.

Few days later, the Eagles lost 2-1 to Benin Republic on matchday four despite taking the lead.

Following the poor results, there were reports of a new coach coming on board which saw Finidi stepping down. He has since taken over as Rivers United coach.

Reflecting on his time as Eagles coach Finidi, in an interview with SportsBoom said:”Most players didn’t show up. The intensity in friendly matches often differs from crucial qualifiers.

“I wanted us to open the camp (ahead qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic) a little bit earlier because we knew the season had come to an end, so the FA accepted, but later they
changed their minds.

“I wanted the team camp to open on the 26th of May, but they said it’s not going to be possible because some players were already on holidays, which was very strange to me. Most players were coming from their vacation places to the camp very late.

“So, if you are at that big stage, if you’re not fit enough, no matter the tactics, you can’t give your best. The concentration was not there leading to conceding easy goals.“

The AFCON 1994 winner also talked about his issue with Victor Osimhen, saying if he was in the shoes of the reigning CAF Player of the Year he would have reacted differently.

He added:”For me, you know, people are different. Character of people are
different. I wouldn’t have done that. If Keshi, late Keshi, had said something about me, I wouldn’t have talked back or Christian Chukwu, these were my coaches.

“If they had said something, or I read something in the media that the coach said, I wouldn’t reply to him. That’s my kind of person, you know.

“The way we react to things is quite different. So, I would not know. But for me personally,
I would not.”