New Nigeria boss Finidi George will face Bafana during a FIFA World qualifier in June
- Nigeria appointed former international winger Finidi George as their new national coach after Jose Peseiro stepped down
- George’s first match will be against Hugo Broos’ Bafana side in a World Cup qualifier on Monday, 3 June 2024
- Football fans took to social media to show their support for George’s appointment and to wish him luck ahead of the Bafana match
Finidi George will mark his debut as Nigeria boss against Bafana on Monday, 3 June 2024. Image: VI Images / Richard Pelham Source: Getty Images
Former Nigeria winger Finidi George has been named as the new coach of the national team ahead of a World Cup qualifier against Bafana on Monday, 3 June 2024.
George was announced by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to replace José Peseiro, who has shown an interest in the Kaizer Chiefs job after stepping down as Super Eagles boss.
Bafana will be the first test for Finidi George
Nigeria announced the appointment of George via their Twitter (X) page:
According to a statement on the NFF website, George was hired after a committee felt he was the best man for the job.
The statement read:
“George’s immediate task will be to guide the Super Eagles to victory in two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and the Benin Republic in Uyo and Abidjan, respectively, in a little over five weeks.”
The match against Nigeria will be the first competitive match for Bafana since their thrilling 3-3 draw against Algeria during a Fifa Series match in March.
Fans welcome George
Fans took to social media to support the winger, who played for the national team and clubs such as Ajax Amsterdam and Ipswich Town.
Zubairu Abdullahi Muhd applauded the decision:
“Good decision by the NFF. Time for an indigenous coach; I wish him the best of luck.”
Kenneth Amarachi salutes the former winger:
“Bravo, George.”
Leonard AB Eddy hopes George will be given a chance:
“The board should please allow him to do the selection by himself.”
Benibo Johnny respects George:
“A respected person and truly a legendary man. Please let NFF allow him to do his job perfectly. NFF should stay away from him.”
Blank Name is pessimistic:
“RIP Super Eagles of Nigeria.”
Bafana celebrate new sponsorship
As reported by Briefly News, Bafana has signed a new sponsorship deal with spice company Freddy Hirsch.
The multi-million rand deal will last for three years, and the company’s products will be used at all home games for Bafana.