Ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming friendly matches, the national team has been without a coach since the departure of José Peseiro and former assistant George Finidi will take over as interim coach.
Nigeria face West African rivals Ghana on Friday 22 March at the Grand Stade in Marrakech, Morocco, before taking on Mali four days later at the same venue.
José Peseiro’s contract expired after he led Nigeria to second place in the 2023 African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, and consequently the Super Eagles’ coaching position is vacant.
The coach announced his departure on Twitter, after more than 22 months in charge of Nigeria. “We have concluded our contract with the NFF. It has been a pride and an honour to coach the Super Eagles. It’s been 22 months of immense dedication, sacrifice, enthusiasm and tremendous drive. We feel fulfilled” he wrote.
“We want to express our gratitude to Amaju Pinnick (the president who hired us), to President Ibrahim Gusau, to General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, to Secretary Dayo Enebi, to the NFF, to all the staff and, above all, to all the players, who it was a great pleasure to coach. Boys, we’re grateful. It’s been a privilege to be part of this family. We’ll miss you, but we’ll always be by your side, wherever you are. A big hug to you all.”
Can Finidi lead Nigeria to victory?
Last season, Finidi led Nigeria’s Enyimba to their ninth NPFL title in a thrilling final.
The People’s Elephants secured the title by drawing 1-1 with Rivers United in the final play-off match of the Super Six at the Mobalaji Johnson Stadium in Lagos.
Despite sharing points with Rivers United, Finidi’s side won the trophy thanks to a better goal difference, after the three teams finished the play-offs level on nine points.
