World Cup Qualifiers: “He has the final say” – Eguavoen denies influencing Chelle on players’ selection

By Wale Mustapha

Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Augustine Eguavoen,  has refuted claims that he interfered in the squad selection process for the Super Eagles’ upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Eguavoen’s statement comes after the release of the 23-man squad by Head Coach Eric Chelle, who had earlier shortlisted 39 players for consideration.

Notable omissions from the final list include team captain Ahmed Musa, Frank Onyeka, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Zaidu Sanusi.

Clarifying his role, Eguavoen emphasized that Chelle has full control over the selection process, and it is ultimately the head coach’s responsibility to decide on the final list.

He explained that while discussions can take place, the coach has the final say on the team selection.

“I want Nigerians to get clarity on something,” Eguavoen said.

“I’ve been technical director for a few years, and I have attended FIFA workshops where I ask questions a lot, and they made it clear to me that a senior national team coach anywhere in the world has the final say on who he wants on his list.”

He further added, “We can interact, we cannot interfere. If he says no, it’s no.

“That is why they can fire a senior national team coach at any time. So I will say Eric Chelle took his time to prepare this list, and he has the final say.”

The Super Eagles will face the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday, March 21, followed by a match against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25.