‘I’m Still In Charge,’ Eguavoen Clarifies

• Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen confirms he will oversee two matches for the Super Eagles in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers
• Eguavoen denies resignation rumors, emphasizing his ongoing role and plans to discuss future strategies with the Nigeria Football Federation

Super Eagles interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has confirmed that he remains in charge of the three-time African champions. Eguavoen, speaking to OwnGoalNigeria, clarified that his current assignment was limited to overseeing two matches in the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

He stated, “I have been given a mandate to handle two games. I am very pleased with the boys, and again, thanks to the NFF leadership and all the boys who supported me in terms of discipline and working hard.” Eguavoen explained that his mandate ended after the two games, adding, “I can’t talk about Libya because I haven’t been told, but I can discuss it a little in case another coach takes over.”

Upon his arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Wednesday, Eguavoen, known as “Cerezo,” denied reports that he had resigned from his position. He clarified that he only intended to discuss with the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) about how to proceed with the remaining qualifiers.

“It’s quite unfortunate that people spread incorrect information. The situation we are in now does not need negative stories. I only mentioned that I would meet with the Federation’s hierarchy after these two games to plan for the next ones. When I saw the reports, I was worried. What people are reading is not correct. I am still very much in charge as the technical director of the federation and responsible for the Super Eagles at this moment,” Eguavoen explained.

Eguavoen was named interim coach after German coach Bruno Labbadia declined the role due to disagreements over tax payment terms. Under Eguavoen’s leadership, the Super Eagles secured a 3-0 win over the Cheetahs of Benin and a 0-0 draw against the Wasps of Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying series.