Finidi’s resignation will allow appointment of better tactician: Ologbese

Mr Ologbese said the leadership of the NFF toying with Super Eagles’ World cup qualification bid with Mr Finidi’s appointment.

News Agency of Nigeria • June 15, 2024

Finidi George [Credit: Punch Newspaper]

The immediate past Vice Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, Dele Ologbese, has described the resignation of Super Eagles’ Head Coach, Finidi George, as a welcome development.

Mr Ologbese said his resignation would pave the way for the appointment of a more experienced tactician.

He said, “It will not be good if Nigeria fails to qualify for the 2026 World Cup”

Mr Ologbese spoke during a telephone interview on Saturday in Akure.

Mr Finidi faced criticisms after series of poor results in the South Africa and Benin Republic world cup qualification matches.

Mr Finidi led the Super Eagles to play 1-1 against South Africa and lost 2-1 to Benin Republic, with three points and sit at the bottom of the group.

NFF had announced its resolve to appoint a foreign Technical Adviser for the Super Eagles in the coming weeks, ahead of the start of 2025 Africa Cup of Nation’s qualifiers in September.

Mr Ologbese said the leadership of the NFF seemed to be toying with Super Eagles’ World cup qualification bid with Mr Finidi’s appointment.

He said, “His resignation from the important job will pave the way for the appointment of a better tactician who will pilot the Super Eagles to the next world cup. It will not be good for Nigeria’s image as a soccer power in Africa to lose out of the world cup in two consecutive times. So, Super Eagles need a high flying gaffer at this time who commands respect of the team to prosecute the remaining six matches in group C. With the resignation of the coach, the ball is in the court of the apex football body and sports ministry to do the needful.’’

According to Mr Ologbese, the country’s failure to qualify for Qatar 2022 World Cup means no excuse will be acceptable for not appearing in the next edition.

He stated, “The sports ministry and NFF must do everything humanly possible to ensure that Super Eagles win all their outstanding six matches. A versatile and highly experienced coach who understands Nigeria’s football terrain should be appointed to handle the Super Eagles.’’

(NAN)

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