The Super Eagles are technically without a coach.
Jose Peseiro signed a short-term deal with the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, last year.
The six-month contract expired at the end of the AFCON.
A key clause that was included in the contract was for Peseiro to take the team to the AFCON semi-finals.
The 63-year-old surpassed that by leading the Eagles to the final, where they lost 2-1 to hosts, Ivory Coast.
Before the tournament, Peseiro was not the Nigerians’ cup of tea.
Oluwagbenga Adava, a broadcaster with Breez FM in Akure, feels the AFCON boosted Peseiro’s perception.
“I think the Nations Cup run added a bit of or a lot of gloss over an albeit disappointing tenure so far. He turned a 3/10 into a 6.5.
“At the end of the day, only the results matter. And the Super Eagles ranking in the latest football country ranking justifies that.
“But the process has been beyond dour and largely uninspiring.”
The latest FIFA rankings saw the three-time African champions jump 14 places into the 28 spot in the world (third on the continent).
In reaction, Peseiro tweeted that he wants to take Nigeria to number 1 in Africa. His comment comes amid the mixed opinions about retaining him beyond the AFCON.
Should he be sacked or offered an extension?
“Being sacked is one thing. Getting a capable replacement is far more important than sacking him – so unless there’s a far more proven and more capable replacement – I think he stays.
“And then he’s putting up with our shenanigans (late salary payment) and whatnot. Any other coach might not have that patience,” Adava added.
The noise coming out from the NFF indicates Peseiro would likely be kept on.
What should be expected from him with the World Cup qualifiers on the horizon?
“I think he should engage his scouts extensively to scurry the length of Europe for midfielders. The defense is sorted and the forward line is alright.
“We should find complementary midfielders for Bright Onyeka, find a way to bring in Ralph Onyedika. I think Alhasan is okay but still very raw.
“All in all – tell your scouts to do their freaking job or at least convince one of Eze Olise or Lesley Ugo,” Adava said.
NFF facing conundrum over Peseiro’s Post-AFCON future with Super Eagles
