Sports
Eguavoen Denies Interference In Super Eagles’ Squad Selection
By Benjamin Abioye
The Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Augustine Eguavoen, has addressed reports claiming interference in the selection of players for the Super Eagles’ upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Head coach Eric Chelle has carefully reduced his initial squad to a final list of 23 players as preparations continue for these important games. However, some well-known players such as Ahmed Musa, Frank Onyeka, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Zaidu Sanusi were left out. This has led to questions from fans and football analysts.
Eguavoen made it clear that the coach has full control over team selection. He explained that Eric Chelle is the one who decides which players will represent Nigeria in these crucial matches.
“I want Nigerians to gain clarity on this issue. As the technical director for several years, I have attended numerous FIFA workshops where I learned that, fundamentally, the head coach of a senior national team worldwide has the final authority on player selection,” Eguavoen told Supersport. He stressed that while discussions can take place, the coach always has the final say.
“If he opts for a player or decides to omit one, that’s his prerogative. That’s the nature of their role, and it’s why head coaches can be relieved of their duties at any time,” he added.
The Super Eagles will begin their training camp this Sunday as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda. Their match against Rwanda will take place next Friday at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali. After that, they will play against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25.
These matches are very important for Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the World Cup. Fans are eager to see how the newly selected squad will perform.
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