Duke Udi explains Finidi’s shortcomings as Super Eagles head coach

Former Nigeria international Duke Udi has offered insights into why George Finidi’s tenure as head coach of the Super Eagles ended untimely.

Brief and Troubled Tenure

Finidi was appointed two months ago, replacing Jose Peseiro, whose contract ended in February. Despite mixed reactions to his appointment, Finidi’s stint quickly turned sour. The Super Eagles drew 1-1 with South Africa at home and then suffered a 2-1 defeat to Benin in World Cup qualifiers.

Tensions and Criticism

Tensions escalated when African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen criticized Finidi, accusing him of questioning his commitment to the team. Finidi soon resigned, although the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) initially denied receiving his resignation letter before eventually confirming it and beginning the search for a new coach.

Duke Udi’s Analysis

Following Finidi’s short reign, Duke Udi stated that the former Enyimba gaffer lacked the necessary skills to be a manager despite his coaching experience.

“In Finidi’s case, he is a coach but wants to transition into a manager, which will be difficult,” Udi told Brila FM. “Finidi is not a manager. He rushed into the position because he wanted the job. But managers are different.”

Decline in the Super Eagles’ Dominance

Udi also pointed out that the Super Eagles no longer intimidate other teams as they once did. “Sometimes, when you watch the Super Eagles, they look ordinary. We wonder, with all these superstars we’ve packed, what is happening? Before, even if you beat us, you would sweat.

“We used to thrash Benin four or five to nothing. If the Benin Republic heard we were coming, they were always scared to play us. Now they don’t fear us anymore, despite all our best players.”

Challenges Ahead

Nigeria has dropped from 30th to 38th in the latest FIFA rankings, and the Super Eagles are at risk of missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup after failing to qualify for the last tournament in Qatar.