Jose Peseiro: Former Nigeria coach recounts his best match as Super Eagles coach

By Monsurah Olatunji

Former Super Eagles coach, José Peseiro, recently shared his reflections on the most memorable game he managed during his tenure with Nigeria’s national team.

Under his guidance, the Nigerian team achieved a remarkable feat by reaching the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2023, a significant accomplishment that hadn’t occurred since 2013.

During his tenure, Peseiro led the Super Eagles to 11 wins, 4 draws, and 7 losses out of 22 games, culminating in a Silver medal finish at the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

Reflecting on his time in charge, Peseiro disclosed that the semi-final win against South Africa at the AFCON 2023 was his most memorable game in charge of the team.

Nigeria’s captain, Troost-Ekong, scored the first goal from the penalty spot, but Teboho Mokhoena equalized after VAR ruled out Osimhen’s goal to double the win.

After a goalless extra time, the match was decided by a penalty shootout, with Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali emerging as a hero after saving three penalties.

His saves ensured Nigeria secured a place in the finals of the AFCON 2023 tournament, where they eventually lost to the hosts.

Peseiro’s tenure as the coach of the Super Eagles was marked by his ability to lead the team to significant accomplishments, including their impressive performance at the AFCON tournament.

“It was the most exciting yes because it allowed us to play in the AFCON final, but we had a lot of really good moments during our time with the Super Eagles,” he told Sport Italia.

His contribution to the Nigerian football team remains significant, and his time in charge has left an indelible mark in the history of the Super Eagles.