Victor Ikpeba, former Nigerian international, has voiced his confidence in Finidi George’s potential to become the substantive coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s national football team.
Finidi George, a former player who notably contributed to Nigeria’s triumph in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations, assumed the role of interim coach following the departure of Jose Peseiro.
Peseiro led Nigeria to the final of the AFCON 2023, where the team narrowly lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast.
Speaking as a guest on Monday Night Football on Supersports, Ikpeba expressed his satisfaction with Finidi’s performance, particularly highlighting the recent 2-1 victory over the Black Stars of Ghana as a significant indicator of his capabilities.
Ikpeba, who is involved in the committee tasked with overseeing the team’s affairs, emphasized the importance of continuity by appointing Finidi as the interim manager instead of seeking external candidates.
“I am happy with what Finidi is doing with the Super Eagles. I am in the system and I know what he’s doing. Don’t forget that I am in the committee set up to do the right thing,” Ikpeba remarked, underlining the committee’s decision to entrust Finidi with the interim role.
Drawing attention to the positive feedback from players, Ikpeba expressed optimism about Finidi’s prospects, indicating that the tide seems to be turning in his favor.
However, he was quick to clarify that while he provides advisory input to the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), the final decision rests with the governing body.
“Nigeria will today confront Les Aigles of Mali in Marrakech in another international friendly,” Ikpeba noted, highlighting the ongoing challenges and opportunities for the team to further demonstrate their capabilities under Finidi’s leadership.
As Nigeria’s footballing journey continues to unfold, the question of who will lead the Super Eagles permanently remains at the forefront of discussions.
With Finidi George demonstrating promise and garnering support from figures like Ikpeba, the path towards his appointment as head coach appears increasingly plausible, offering hope and anticipation for the future of Nigerian football.
