Jonathan Nwokpor
In a technical sense, the Super Eagles are without a coach.
The Nigeria Football Federation, or NFF, and Jose Peseiro inked a short-term contract last year.
After the AFCON, the six-month contract came to an end.
One of the most essential things in the contract was Peseiro’s obligation to lead the team to the AFCON semifinals.
The 63-year-old exceeded that by guiding the Eagles to the championship game, where they fell short against the Ivory Coast hosts, 2-1.
Peseiro was different from the Nigerians’ cup of tea before the event.
Broadcaster Oluwagbenga Adava of Breez FM in Akure believes that Peseiro’s image has improved as a result of the AFCON.
“I think the Nations Cup run added a bit of or a lot of gloss over an albeit disappointing tenure so far. He turned a 3/10 into a 6.5.
“At the end of the day, only the results matter. And the Super Eagles ranking in the latest football country ranking justifies that.
“But the process has been beyond dour and largely uninspiring.”
The three-time African champions jumped fourteen spots to the world’s 28th spot (third on the continent) in the most recent FIFA rankings.
Peseiro responded by tweeting that he wished to see Nigeria rise to the top of Africa. His remark coincides with differing views on keeping him beyond the AFCON.
Should we give him a rise or a layoff?
“Being sacked is one thing. Getting a capable replacement is far more important than sacking him – so unless there’s a far more proven and more capable replacement – I think he stays.
“And then he’s putting up with our shenanigans (late salary payment) and whatnot. Any other coach might not have that patience,” Adava added.
The noise coming out from the NFF indicates Peseiro would likely be kept on.
What should be expected from him with the World Cup qualifiers on the horizon?
“I think he should engage his scouts extensively to scurry the length of Europe for midfielders. The defense is sorted and the forward line is alright.
“We should find complementary midfielders for Bright Onyeka, find a way to bring in Ralph Onyedika. I think Alhasan is okay but still very raw.
“All in all – tell your scouts to do their freaking job or at least convince one of Eze Olise or Lesley Ugo,” Adava said.
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