Eguavoen Embraces Falcons Role, Targets Olympics Ticket
By Saheed Afolabi
Nigeria women’s national team interim head coach, Augustine Eguavoen has described his appointment to lead the Super Falcons as a privilege and blessing, while expressing confidence in the team’s ability to overcome Comoros in their 2028 Olympic Games qualifying encounter at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, Ogun State.
Eguavoen, who has predominantly worked in men’s football, admitted that taking charge of the women’s national team was an unexpected development but said he was pleased to embrace the opportunity.
The former Super Eagles coach also acknowledged the Super Falcons’ achievements in African football and their presence on the global stage, including appearances at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and the Olympic Games.
“Now I understand the reality that you can never say never in your life. Everybody is privileged to coach the Super Falcons, as I should be proud,” Eguavoen said.
“Because this team has dominated Africa, and also stood with it when it comes to the World Cup level, Olympics as well.”
He described the appointment as a significant moment in his coaching career, expressing gratitude to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for the opportunity to lead the team.
“I will see it as a privilege and a blessing also to me. I want to survive on coaching today. Swapping men’s football to women’s football at first, I’ve found myself reluctant and happy by that.
“And thanks to the Nigeria Football Federation and National Sports Commission that I can do the job.”
Eguavoen expressed confidence in the Super Falcons ability to deliver on home soil but insisted that his players would not underestimate their opponents.
The coach maintained that Nigeria would focus on executing its game plan rather than being distracted by expectations or the perceived strength of the opposition.
“I believe no team can come here and survive. But we are not looking down on anyone. We’re not looking down on our opponents, really, with all respect. We stick to our game plan and just make sure we deliver.”
The encounter in Ikenne represents an important step in Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
