Jose Peseiro, Super Eagles’ head coach, on Wednesday in Abuja said he accepted the job because he is hopeful of winning the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“I came here for one goal. I want to win the next AFCON for my fantastic players and Nigerians,” Peseiro said.
Peseiro spoke when the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially presented him to Sunday Dare, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development.
The Portuguese maintained that he believed in the team and its players.
“I have followed Nigeria’s history in football from 1994 and other successful teams. I want to bring joy back to Nigerians,” Peseiro said.
On his part, Dare said the Super Eagles were in a rebuilding process and urged Peseiro to ensure discipline and regain fans’ confidence in the team.
“We welcome Peseiro to Nigeria, and we have seen that you have hit the ground running to help restore the confidence in the team, especially after the World Cup ticket loss.
“This is a start of a rebuilding process. We are a football-loving nation. We love to win all the time, even though we know it’s not possible.
“We urge you to ensure consistency and discipline in the team on and off the pitch. It is a critical instrument for the success of the team,” he said.
He also urged the coach to allow talents in the country’s domestic league.
Peseiro had his first outing with Nigeria during the 1-2 loss to Mexico in a friendly on May 28.
He later led the team to a 0-1 to Ecuador on Thursday in another friendly in the U.S. and will now lead them in their first competitive game on Thursday in Abuja.
This is when they step out against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone for their first match of the 2023 AFCON qualifiers.
(NAN)
