JUST IN: NFF Appoints New Coach to Lead Super Eagles in AFCON Qualifiers After Labbadia Withdrawal

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Augustine Eguavoen as the head coach of the Super Eagles for their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda. This decision follows the sudden withdrawal of German coach Bruno Labbadia from the role.

Labbadia, who had been announced earlier this week as the successor to Finidi George, stepped down due to complications related to German tax laws. According to the NFF, these unresolved tax issues became a significant barrier to finalizing his contract.

NFF President Ibrahim Gusau elaborated on the situation, stating, “We have been addressing the tax issue for the past three days. I made it clear that the NFF cannot cover the additional tax percentage, ranging from 32% to 40% of his salary, demanded by German tax authorities. It is impossible for us to bear that responsibility after agreeing on a monthly wage.”

Gusau also mentioned that while an agreement had been reached in principle, the tax complications arose after the fact. Despite efforts to be flexible, Labbadia insisted that the NFF cover the full tax amount, a condition the federation could not meet.

With Eguavoen now at the helm, the NFF has named a 23-player squad for the crucial qualifiers. Key players, including Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi, and stand-in captain William Troost-Ekong, are set to return following extended injury absences.

The Super Eagles will now focus on their upcoming matches under the leadership of the experienced Eguavoen as they aim to secure their place in the 2025 AFCON tournament.