Nigeria coach leaves role after TotalEnergies AFCON

Yesterday, we concluded our contract with the NFF. It was a pride and honor to coach the Super Eagles. It has been 22 months of immense dedication, sacrifice, emotion, and enormous enthusiasm. We feel a sense of fulfillment.

— Jose Peseiro (@JosePeseiro) March 1, 2024

The Nigeria national team is looking for a new coach after José Peseiro opted to leave his role following last month’s TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations final defeat, CAFonline reports.

The Portuguese coach guided the Super Eagles to the final in his first major tournament in charge, where they were beaten by hosts Cote d’Ivoire.

But despite reaching the target set by the Nigeria Football Federation of a semi-final spot, the 63-year-old has decided to step down.

In a social media post, Peseiro said it had been “22 months of immense dedication, sacrifice, emotion, and enormous enthusiasm” during his time with Nigeria.

He added, “We feel a sense of fulfillment. It has been a privilege to be part of this family.”

Peseiro was a surprise appointment by the NFF in May 2022, and he had to overcome initial skepticism about his suitability.

After missing out on the 2022 World Cup qualification, Peseiro took charge of the Super Eagles and implemented a pragmatic style.

Despite commendable performances, including a penalty shootout win over South Africa in the semi-final, Nigeria fell short in the final against Cote d’Ivoire, prompting Peseiro’s departure.

The search for Nigeria’s next manager begins. The country aims to build on its recent successes and continue pursuing footballing excellence on the international stage.

Peseiro leaves big shoes to fill, with calls growing for Nigeria to turn to a world-class coach as they begin the search for a successor.