'No way I can Say No' - Eguavoen gives reasons for inability to Resist Super Eagles Call

• Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen states his reasons for accepting the role of 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, citing duty and responsibility to Nigerian football.
• The former Nigeria international calls for commitment from all stakeholders as he prepares for his first game in charge against Benin.

Technical director of the Nigerian Football Federation Austin Eguavoen, recently accepted the role of interim coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria's national football team, ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. 

The development came in light of the Federation's failed attempt to secure the services of German coach Bruno Labbadia.

Eguavoen, a retired Nigeria international with a wealth of experience, has served as coach of the Super Eagles on three previous occasions. 

His first stint was in 2005, assisted by Samson Siasia, Daniel Amokachi, and Ike Shorunmu, during the 2006 Africa Cup of Nations. 

He last took charge in 2021, leading Nigeria to a round of 16 finish in the AFCON and overseeing the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Ghana.

In an interview with Super Eagles official channels, The 59-year-old revealed that he didn't lobby for the appointment but felt compelled to answer the call. 

"I am a member of the Federation, working as the Technical Director... When a situation like this arises, and you are being called upon, you can't say no," he stated.

Eguavoen's acceptance of the role is a testament to his dedication to Nigerian football. He acknowledged that football has given him everything he has today and feels a strong sense of responsibility to give back. 

"It is something that I think I owe football... When an employer calls you to do something within, there is no way you can say no," he said.

As Eguavoen prepares to lead the Super Eagles into battle against Benin and Rwanda, he has called for commitment from everyone involved. 

"What we want to ask for is commitment from everybody towards the same goal and objective," he emphasized.

The Super Eagles will play their first game against Benin Republic on Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo.

Coach @coacheguavoen speaks ahead of first Eagles training #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/rmwjsJGkzk

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 3, 2024