Finidi George Pledges to lead super Eagles to the 2026 world cup

 

The new head coach of the Super Eagles, Finidi George, has pledged to guide Nigeria to the 2026 World Cup set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

 He was granted an initial one-year contract by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and was formally introduced to the public yesterday in Abuja. Assisting him will be his former international teammate, Daniel Amokachi, who is returning to the team for his third stint as assistant coach.

During the unveiling ceremony, attended by Sports Minister John Owan Enoh, top NFF officials, journalists, and other football stakeholders, George emphasized that he would only select players who regularly feature for their clubs, whether in Nigeria or abroad, for international duties. 

He assured that the Super Eagles would maintain their competitiveness in the years ahead.George outlined his immediate goals, stating, “My priority is to ensure our qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by securing victories in the upcoming matches against South Africa and Benin Republic. 

Additionally, we must prepare for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. I am aware of the NFF's expectations outlined in the contract, and I am committed to adding value to the team to exceed those expectations.”Regarding his relationship with the players, George emphasized professionalism, saying, “I have always maintained a positive rapport with the players as an assistant coach, and this will not change. Respect and professionalism are paramount; we aim to emulate the standards seen in European football.”NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau explained the decision to appoint George, stating that it marks a new era of excellence for the federation. Gusau expressed confidence in George's ability to lead the team to success, citing his previous contributions to the technical crew.

George has been granted autonomy in selecting his coaching staff, with Daniel Amokachi and Benjamin James appointed as assistants, along with Olatunji Baruwa as goalkeepers’ trainer, Chima Onyeike as fitness trainer, and Mehmet Ozturk as analyst.With George becoming the 41st coach to manage the Nigeria national team, his tenure may extend beyond the Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, which will be held in Morocco. 

Looking ahead to the World Cup qualifier against South Africa on September 7, 2025, George's focus will be on maintaining and elevating Nigeria's footballing stature, building on his illustrious career achievements.