Why NFF cannot sack Coach Paseiro, says NFF member

The Nigeria Footbal Federation cannot fire coach Jose Peseiro for now because of contractual agreement.

According to a member of executive committee of the NFF, Nse Essien, to fire Peseiro would require a lot of money.

It looks like the couch will continue despite two poor performances in World Cup qualifiers, as well as the Nigerians’ calls for his sack.

The Vanguard quoted Essien to have said the NFF could have fire Peseiro if they had the money to pay him.

Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup is already in serious jeopardy after they managed only two draws in their first two qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

Walter Musona scored direct from a free kick to put Zimbabwe ahead in the first half and Leicester forward Kelechi Iheanacho equalised midway through the second half in the second match played yesterday.

“If we had the money (to pay for compensation), we will be willing to relieve him of his job. We’re not happy.

“Everybody is asking for the sack of the head coach. It’s unfortunate that from a possible six points, we only have two points. We’re in a very precarious situation,” NFF member Essien told reporters.

South Africa lead Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with three points. And they will be expected to widen the gap on Tuesday when they visit Rwanda, while Lesotho host Benin in South Africa.

Nigeria, who failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, have two points from two matches.

The qualifiers will resume in June 2024 with Nigeria hoping to make up lost ground when they welcome South Africa to the southern city of Uyo. Then, a tricky trip to Benin.