Ex-Super Eagles head coach, Finidi George, has opened up about his struggles with the Nigerian national team, stating factors that led to his failures at the helm.
Finidi barely lasted six weeks in charge of the Super Eagles following a series of disappointing performances, with the ex-Enyimba boss announcing his resignation shortly afterward.
The team failed to record a single victory in his only two competitive games at the helm, playing a 1-1 draw with South Africa before losing 2-1 to Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers games.
Finidi reflects on his struggles with the Super Eagles
The 55-year-old gaffer, reflecting on his time as the Super Eagles gaffer, explained the difficulties he encountered, emphasizing that fitness issues and a lack of preparation were major factors in the team’s poor performances.
“I wanted us to open camp a little earlier because we knew the season had ended, and the FA initially agreed but later changed their minds,” the Heartland boss told SportsBoom.
“I wanted the camp to open on May 26, but they said it wasn’t possible because some players were already on holiday, which was very strange to me.”
Finidi further revealed that a large number of players, fresh off vacation, showed up at the training camp late and out of form.
“Most players arrived at camp late, straight from their vacations,” he revealed.
“If you’re not fit enough at that level, no matter the tactics, you can’t perform at your best,” the former winger explained, suggesting that the team’s lack of concentration resulted in them conceding cheap goals.
The former Ajax man also made the observation that players’ competitive spirit did not translate to the vital World Cup qualifying matches.
“Most players didn’t show up. The intensity in friendly matches often differs from crucial qualifiers,” he noted.
Augustine Eguavoen was named the Super Eagles’ interim coach following Finidi’s departure.
Under his direction, the squad won 3-0 against Benin Republic and recorded a goalless draw with Rwanda in the AFCON qualifying round.
