Nigeria colsters coaching staff for AFCON 2025 qualifiers with local additions
In preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, Nigeria has made key adjustments to its technical team. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed two local coaches, Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, to reinforce the national side’s coaching staff. Their appointment comes just ahead of Nigeria’s opening qualification matches against Benin and Rwanda.
Following a series of changes at the helm, the former Nigerian international defender Augustine Eguavoen has been recalled as head coach.
His reappointment follows the unexpected withdrawal of German coach Bruno Labbadia, who had been slated to lead the team.
The additions of Ogunmodede and Ilechukwu to the backroom staff were made official on Monday, signaling Nigeria’s renewed focus on domestic coaching talent as they aim to secure a strong start in the qualifying campaign.
The inclusion of Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu in Nigeria’s coaching setup is seen as a strategic move.
Both have earned recognition for their accomplishments in the domestic football scene during the 2023-2024 season, and they are expected to bring their expertise and leadership to the national team setup.
Ogunmodede, 44, had an impressive run with Remo Stars, guiding his side to a second-place finish in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) and securing a spot in the finals of the Nigeria Cup.
His efforts also saw Remo Stars qualify for the CAF Champions League, underscoring his tactical acumen and potential to make an impact on the continental stage.
Similarly, 46-year-old Fidelis Ilechukwu has made a name for himself after leading Enugu Rangers FC to victory in the NPFL.
Ilechukwu has previously held coaching positions at notable clubs, including MFM FC, Heartland FC, and Plateau United.
His managerial skills, combined with his success at the domestic level, have cemented him as one of Nigeria’s rising coaching stars.
The decision to strengthen the coaching bench with local experts highlights Nigeria’s commitment to revitalizing their campaign for AFCON 2025.
With Eguavoen leading the charge and being supported by Ogunmodede and Ilechukwu, the Super Eagles will look to leverage their combined experience to navigate the crucial qualifiers ahead.
Nigeria faces tough competition as they prepare for the first two rounds of the AFCON Morocco 2025 qualifiers.
The Super Eagles will host Benin in Uyo on September 7 before traveling to Kigali to face Rwanda three days later.
These matches mark the beginning of what Nigeria hopes will be a successful journey towards AFCON 2025, and the new coaching additions are expected to play a vital role in shaping the team’s tactical approach.
Both Ogunmodede and Ilechukwu are known for their distinct coaching styles and deep understanding of the Nigerian football landscape, qualities that should complement Eguavoen’s vast experience.
Their roles will be pivotal as they aim to galvanize the team, build on Nigeria’s recent performances, and ensure a smooth start to the qualifying campaign.
As Nigeria prepares for these crucial qualifiers, the newly assembled coaching team carries the hopes of a nation keen on reclaiming its dominance in African football.
The appointments of Ogunmodede and Ilechukwu reflect the NFF’s desire to cultivate local talent while enhancing the national team’s prospects.
As the Super Eagles set their sights on qualifying for AFCON 2025, the new-look technical staff represents a bold step forward in Nigeria’s footballing future.
