Eguavoen drafted to coach Super Eagles for Benin, Rwanda matches after Labbadia’s withdrawal

Eguavoen drafted to coach Super Eagles for Benin, Rwanda matches after Labbadia’s withdrawal

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced that Augustine Eguavoen, a former Super Eagles player and current Technical Director, will be the head coach for the team’s upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

This development follows the unexpected withdrawal of German coach Bruno Labbadia, who was initially appointed earlier this week to succeed Finidi George. Labbadia reportedly declined the position due to unresolved issues related to German tax laws.

In a statement released on Friday via X (formerly Twitter), the NFF explained that these tax complications were the primary reason for the breakdown in negotiations with Labbadia.

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NFF President Ibrahim Gusau elaborated, “We have been addressing the tax issue for three days. I clarified to him that the NFF cannot agree to pay the additional tax percentage on his salary that German tax authorities would require. It’s not feasible for us to pay an additional 32% to 40% of his salary after already agreeing to his monthly wage.”

Gusau further clarified that while the NFF and Labbadia had agreed in principle before announcing his appointment, the tax issue was not discussed during their negotiations. Despite attempts to find a compromise, Labbadia insisted that the NFF cover the full tax amount, which the federation could not do.

With Labbadia out of the picture, Eguavoen will now lead the Super Eagles into their crucial qualifiers. The NFF has named a 23-player squad for the upcoming matches, including key players like Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi, and stand-in captain William Troost-Ekong, all of whom are returning after extended injury absences.

Eguavoen drafted to coach Super Eagles for Benin, Rwanda matches after Labbadia’s withdrawal