Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro, has reportedly responded to comments made by Shariff Ahlan, Chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Committee, stating that the NFF should pay him and his team their outstanding allowances instead of criticizing his coaching abilities. Peseiro allegedly made this statement during a meeting with Ahlan in Lisbon, Portugal, in October, where Ahlan criticized the coach’s performance, citing the team’s struggles.
Despite guiding Nigeria to qualification for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, Peseiro’s tenure has faced criticism, especially after the team’s underwhelming performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles currently trail behind Rwanda and South Africa after two 1-1 draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
In response to the criticism, Sports Minister John Enoh has summoned Peseiro for a meeting to discuss the team’s poor performance. While acknowledging concerns about the team’s performance, Enoh emphasized the need to carefully consider decisions, especially with the Africa Cup of Nations approaching in January.
Enoh noted that the decision to sack a coach is not based on emotions, and the ministry is focused on making informed decisions to address the challenges facing the Super Eagles. The minister highlighted the upcoming World Cup qualification rounds in June as an opportunity to assess and make decisions going forward.