OFFICIAL: NFF unveils Finidi George as coach of Nigeria national football team Super Eagles

NFF unveiled Finidi George as new Super Eagles manager in May. (Photo Credit: Football temple/X)

OFFICIAL: NFF unveils Finidi George as coach of Nigeria national football team Super Eagles

Izuchukwu Akawor 10:24 - 13.05.2024

Finidi George's reign as Super Eagles coach has officially started after his unveiling by the NFF.

Finidi George was appointed the new head coach of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles after being unveiled by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) at a ceremony in Abuja on Monday.

The former winger, who earned 62 caps for Nigeria and was part of the iconic 1994 AFCON winning side, has signed a deal to take permanent charge of the three-time African champions.

Finid George’s starts Super Eagles role

George had been in interim control of the Super Eagles for their two friendly matches against Ghana and Mali in Morocco last month.

He guided Nigeria to a 2-1 victory over rivals Ghana to end an 18-year winless run against the Black Stars, before suffering a 2-0 defeat against Mali days later.

Nigeria vs Ghana
Super Eagles new coach Finidi George | Imago Finidi George made some tactical alterations in Nigeria's win over Ghana (Imago)

The 53-year-old now assumes the role on a full-time basis, having previously served as assistant to former head coach Jose Peseiro prior to the Portuguese's departure following the 2023 AFCON.

The NFF board officially approved George's appointment late last month on the recommendation of their Technical and Development Committee.

The former Ajax, Real Betis and Ipswich winger attended the unveiling ceremony in Abuja alongside the Minister for Sports, Owan Enoh.

Finidi George celebrates winning the Eredivisie with Loius van Gaal and Edgar Davids
Finidi George celebrates winning the Eredivisie with Loius van Gaal and Edgar Davids | 90s Football onX

A legendary figure in Nigerian football, George was a key member of the lauded 'Golden Generation' that won the 1994 AFCON and starred at the World Cup in the USA that same year.

He won a total of four AFCON medals - gold in 1994, silver in 1992 and 2000, and bronze in 2002 during an illustrious international career spanning over a decade.

Finidi George remains bullish in his belief that Enyimba are still title contenders in the NPFL.
Finidi George also won the NPFL with Enyimba. (Photo Credit: Enyimba)

George faces a huge task getting the Super Eagles back on track after a disappointing 2023 AFCON campaign in Ivory Coast where they lost on penalties to hosts in the final.

But with his pedigree and experience, he will be backed to deliver success as Nigeria target a fourth continental title and a first World Cup knockout stage appearance.

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