Nigeria appoints George Finidi as national team coach

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed former Nigerian international, Finidi George, as the new head coach of the national team, the Super Eagles. This decision marks a significant transition in Nigerian football leadership, with Finidi stepping into the role previously held by Portugal’s José Peseiro.

In a statement released on Monday, the NFF confirmed the appointment of George following recommendations from the technical committee.

The board of directors of the NFF subsequently ratified the decision, underscoring their confidence in George’s ability to lead the team forward.

At 53 years old, George brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served as Peseiro’s deputy for 20 months.

His tenure alongside the Portuguese coach culminated in Nigeria’s commendable performance at the recent Africa Cup of Nations, where they reached the final against Ivory Coast.

Despite a valiant effort, Nigeria narrowly lost 2-1 to the Elephants in the final showdown.

Now, George assumes full responsibility as the head coach of the Super Eagles, with a primary objective of guiding the team to qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

His first test in this endeavor will come in the form of crucial matches against South Africa in Uyo and Benin in Abidjan scheduled for June.

As George prepares to lead the Super Eagles into a new era, expectations are high for him to build upon the team’s past successes and propel them to further achievements on the international stage.

With his wealth of knowledge and experience both as a player and a coach, George’s appointment signals a fresh chapter in Nigerian football, one that fans eagerly anticipate with optimism and excitement.