NFF keep faith with Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro despite Portugal loss

By Olu Dare

The Nigeria Football Federation has made it clear they still have faith in Nigeria’s head coach Jose Peseiro despite losing to Portugal.

Inspired by Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, the Europeans silenced the Super Eagles 4-0 in a prestige friendly stage in Lisbon, with Emmanuel Dennis missing from the penalty spot.

Following the heavy defeat, the Portuguese tactician has suffered a barrage of criticism with many calling for the sack of the former Venezuela handler.

However, the NFF has dismissed that claim, insisting that they trust him to deliver for the three-time African champions.

“He (Peseiro)has just started and we need to be patient with him,” an official told ESPN.

“He has also won the two games that were important, that is the qualifiers for the Nations Cup. Friendlies are just friendlies, and we will judge him on the qualifiers.”

The 61-year-old previously worked at Panathinaikos, Real Madrid, Sporting CP, Al Ahly, Braga and most recently as Venezuela national team coach – a role he left in August 2021 over unpaid salary.

Peseiro revealed why he decided to pitch his tent with the three-time African champions as well as making a vow to win the Africa Cup of Nations.

“Why did I decide with the NFF president that I want to come here? Why did I say I want to win the Afcon? Because I believe in the players, I have confidence in them,” said the 62-year-old.

“I have spoken to my staff, the players and step by step I will learn about the environment, and the characteristics of the players and I will know the players better when I go to the pitch with them.

“In these few days we’ve been together we did some exercise and for tomorrow I want to win I must win.”