Augustine Eguavoen’s appointment as the Super Falcons’ temporary coach has sparked concerns over Nigeria’s Olympic qualifying preparations for 2028.

Eguavoen was named on Tuesday as the team’s coach for the two-leg qualifying match against Comoros in October.

The appointment coincides with a challenging time for Nigerian football, as both senior national teams are under increasing criticism due to subpar performance on the international front.

Despite having a wealth of Nigerian football experience, Eguavoen’s selection has been contested because he has never coached a professional women’s team.

The 60-year-old has worked with the Super Eagles, domestic clubs in Nigeria, and teams in other parts of Africa, such as Black Leopards and Stade Malien, for the most of his coaching career.

Additionally, he has established himself as the Nigeria Football Federation’s go-to emergency alternative, frequently filling in when the Super Eagles need a temporary coach.

It’s not always easy to apply that experience to the women’s game, though.

The characteristics of the women’s game, squad preparation, and player management might provide distinct obstacles than those in men’s football, and managing a national team demands more than just tactical expertise.

Additionally, Eguavoen won’t have much time to adjust before Nigeria’s Olympic qualification campaign starts.

The Super Falcons are likewise trying to bounce back from a poor run of performance.

Nigeria was eliminated at the quarterfinals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, the first time in the competition’s history. They had to contend with the World Cup qualification playoffs as a result, and they were unable to take advantage of another chance.

The team will now play Comoros in a doubleheader that should easily advantage Nigeria on paper.

Although the Super Falcons have a lot more experience and individual talent, recent events have demonstrated why complacency could be risky.

Just two months ago, Nigeria was shockingly defeated by Malawi at the WAFCON, demonstrating that a difference in individual quality does not automatically equate to success.

As a result, Eguavoen will have to rebuild trust in a team that has been criticised by fans while making sure Nigeria doesn’t suffer another humiliating defeat.