My record as Super Eagles coach is deliberately misrepresented to mock me, shouts Eguavoen!

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Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen has addressed the misconception surrounding his involvement with the national team, clarifying that while this is technically his fourth stint, the length of his previous tenures have often been brief.

Eguavoen’s first spell as Super Eagles coach came between 2006 and 2007, followed by a short-term position in 2010 and again in 2022.

He recently took over as interim coach in September 2024.

In an interview on Brila FM, “No Restrictions with Ifeanyi Udeze”, Eguavoen highlighted the importance of objective criticism and expressed frustration at the narrative that depicts his participation as a long and recurring mandate.

“The general question to the country, will you be patient with me? Because now people say that this is Eguavoen’s fourth stage as coach of the Super Águilas, I totally agree,” said the coach.

Super Eagles coaches led by Austin Eguavoen during a training session. Photo | X (CoachDan_Ijabal)

“But just so people know, the first time I coached the Eagles in 6 months was in 2006.

“And on other occasions, it was two months, 2 games or 3. Then, at the AFCON in Cameroon, it was from December to March and we also covered the World Cup. So people say that the fourth period as coach of Eguavoen is not 100% correct.”

He continued: “How can people just say that in Eguavoen’s fourth stint with the Super Eagles, I have ever coached the team for two years in a row?

“All those who say fourth periods should sit down and reflect, the only time I did six months was in 2006. Let’s be objective in our criticism.”

Eguavoen is set to lead the Super Eagles in their upcoming double-header against Libya, and the NFF entrusts him with the responsibility.

The first leg will be played in Uyo on October 11, followed by the second leg in Libya on October 15.

Super Eagles players celebrate.

Super Eagles ready for Rwanda – Coach Eguavoen

The most important question now is: if Eguavoen is finally appointed long-term, will he be able to deliver?