By Michael Madyira
Beleagured Bafana Bafana World Cup qualifier opponents Nigeria are now without a coach following the resignation of Finidi George after just two games in charge.
George stepped down from his role as Super Eagles coach in the aftermath of his side’s failure to collect maximum points in their recent 2026 Fifa World Cup bid.
As correctly reported by Scrolla.Africa, George was a walking dead man and it was just a matter of days before he could be jobless.
“I am writing you of my decision to step down as the head coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s men’s senior team,” read George’s resignation letter as per The Eagle Online.
“This decision is in light of the recent decision to effect changes to the team’s technical crew.”
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire leadership of the federation, the sports ministry, and the people of Nigeria for the opportunity to serve as the head coach of the Super Eagles.”
After starting out as Nigeria interim coach in March, George led them to a 2-1 international friendly match victory over old rivals Ghana before losing 2-0 to Mali in another sparring game.
The Nigerian Football Federation then went on to appoint him substantive trainer but the 1-1 home draw with Bafana Bafana and the 2-1 defeat by Benin in the World Cup qualifiers left the Super Eagles fifth in the six-team Group C.
“Although our recent results in the qualifying matches were not as desired, I remained committed to getting our World Cup qualification campaign back on track,” added the former Ajax Amsterdam wideman.
Following recent results, the NFF announced they would appoint an expatriate technical advisor to work with George.
The move was viewed as a vote of no confidence in the coach who said that the decision pushed him through the exit door.
“However, with the recent changes to the technical crew, I believe it is time to vacate my position,” he said.
“Please be assured of my continued support for the team, and I wish us all the best for the future.”
The NFF will now have to search for a new coach before the commencement of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in September.
Pictured above: Nigeria coach Finidi George supervising his players at training.
Image source: NFF
