Super Eagles set to begin AFCON 2025 preparations in Uyo amid uncertainty over coaching vacancy

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up to commence preparations for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches, with the training camp slated to open in Uyo on September 1. Despite the crucial upcoming games, the Nigerian national team is currently without a permanent head coach, following the departure of Finidi George in June.

Nigeria’s AFCON qualifying campaign will begin with a home fixture against the Benin Republic on September 7, to be played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The match is scheduled for a 5 p.m. kickoff and will be followed by an away game against Rwanda just three days later.

Club officials have confirmed that most of the invited players are expected to report to the Uyo camp by the time the backroom staff arrives on September 1.

However, with the coaching position still vacant, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) faces pressure to make a decision ahead of these important qualifiers.

At present, Austin Eguavoen, the NFF’s Technical Director, is poised to step in as interim coach for the upcoming matches.

Eguavoen, who previously managed the Super Eagles during past AFCON campaigns, will lead the team on a temporary basis as the NFF continues its search for a permanent head coach.

Among the candidates reportedly being considered for the top job are Hervé Renard, a seasoned figure in African football who has previously enjoyed success with teams like Zambia, Angola, and the Ivory Coast, and Janne Andersson, former coach of Sweden.

Renard, who guided Zambia to an unexpected AFCON victory in 2012, brings a wealth of experience to the table and has been highly regarded for his achievements across the continent.

Meanwhile, Andersson’s international experience with Sweden makes him another strong contender for the role.

The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON champions, have a rich history in the tournament but have not lifted the trophy since their triumph in 2013.

Their last appearance in the final came in 2019 when they narrowly lost to the Ivory Coast.

As Nigeria embarks on another quest for African football glory, there is renewed optimism that the team can secure a place in the upcoming AFCON finals, set to be held in Morocco from December 2025 to January 2026.

For now, all eyes will be on Uyo as the team begins its preparations under interim guidance, with Nigerian football fans hoping that the coaching uncertainty will not hinder their national team’s quest for qualification.

The pressure is mounting on the NFF to appoint a permanent head coach who can guide the Super Eagles to success not only in the qualifiers but also in the tournament itself.