AFCON 2025Q: Super Eagles get September date to open Uyo camp amid coaching uncertainty

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up for their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with plans to open camp in Uyo on September 1, Soccernet.ng reports.

This preparation comes ahead of crucial matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

According to team officials, the backroom staff will arrive in Uyo on September 1, with most of the invited players expected to join soon after.

Nigeria, the three-time African champions, will first take on the Cheetahs of Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on September 7, with a 5 pm kickoff.

Following this, the team will travel to Rwanda for the second qualifier, scheduled three days later.

However, the Super Eagles are currently without a head coach following the departure of Finidi George in June.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to appoint a new coach, leading to uncertainty as the qualifiers approach.

Reports indicate that Austin Eguavoen, the NFF’s Technical Director, will temporarily oversee the team for these two matches.

The NFF is also exploring long-term coaching options, with former Sweden coach Janne Andersson and Hervé Renard, a seasoned figure in African football, being considered for the role.

Renard’s extensive experience includes successful stints with Zambia, Angola, Ivory Coast, and Morocco.

Nigeria, having reached the final of the last AFCON where they narrowly lost to Côte d’Ivoire, are once again strong contenders to qualify for the tournament in Morocco and potentially clinch their first title since 2013.