The Nigeria Football Federation is currently deliberating on the tenure of Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro, indicating a potential disengagement, as the quest for a suitable replacement gains momentum. Sources reveal that the federation’s Technical Committee has expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s performance under the Portuguese coach and is actively seeking a local coaching option.
Since assuming the role in 2022, Peseiro has overseen 15 matches for the Eagles, winning six and losing six. The team, a three-time African champion, has scored 31 goals, with a notable 10-goal performance against Sao Tome and Principe, while conceding 21 goals. Despite securing qualification for the upcoming Nations Cup in Ivory Coast, Peseiro’s squad currently lags behind Rwanda and South Africa in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The impending decision reflects the NFF’s commitment to reshaping the coaching staff to better align with their goals and expectations.
Speaking in an interview with Arewa Radio, the NFF Technical Committee Chairman, Shariff Ahlan, said if he had the sole power to sack Peseiro, he would do it in minutes and employ an indigenous coach.
“If I have the final say on Peseiro’s future, it will take me just one minute to fire him and bring in a Nigerian to replace him,” Ahlan said.
“People do not know that there have been undue interferences and in most instances, there is only little, we as technical committee members can do.
“We had once resolved to let him go at all cost but the sports minister weighed in and pleaded for another lifeline on his behalf but we are in search of a replacement and it will be a local coach.
“Now we can see what the Falcons coach is doing with the team. Nigerians must be patient. If all these Nigerian coaches are given the opportunity they can perform very well, it only takes time.”
Ahlan also faulted Peseiro for keeping fate with Francis Uzoho despite his constant errors in goal for the Eagles.
He said, “We sat with Peseiro in Lisbon and asked why he invited four goalkeepers and opted to use Uzoho for the two games without trying out others,” he continued.
“Uzoho is second choice in his team and he doesn’t even play not to talk of how he performs. We’ve played several games and he keeps making mistakes so why use him all the time.”
