Soccer News of Thursday, 13 June 2024
Source: www.sportsbrief.com
The Finidi George era with the Super Eagles of Nigeria appears to be ending almost as quickly as it began.
The 53-year-old, appointed as the West Africans' manager on April 29, could be relegated to the role of an assistant coach following disappointing results in the two matches under his leadership.
The former Enyimba manager, tasked with leading Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, failed to meet expectations, with the team recording a draw and a defeat to significantly jeopardise their qualification chances.
In the wake of these results, widespread reports in Nigeria's football community suggest that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is considering appointing a technical adviser to effectively replace Finidi as head coach.
According to the report from the media outlet, the members of the NFF hierarchy are leaning towards the appointment of Portuguese gaffer, Antonio Conceicao.
The 62-year-old was dubbed the prime candidate to lead the Nigerian team following the departure of Jose Peseiro; however, the NFF opted for Finidi instead.
Conceicao is vastly experienced on the African continent, with his most recent success coming with the Cameroonian national team, where he led them to bronze at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Per data courtesy of Footy Stat, his record with the Indomitable Lions stands at 11 victories and five draws in the 17 games he oversaw.