Eguavoen criticises Eagles squad without NPFL players

Former Nigeria coach Austin Eguavoen has criticised Super Eagles head coach Finidi George for excluding Nigeria Professional Football League players from the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, announced this week in Abuja.

Eguavoen said the omission was unfair and ignored in-form domestic talents who helped Nigeria qualify for recent tournaments. “You cannot continue to overlook the NPFL and expect it to grow,” Eguavoen told Complete Sports. “Some of these players have shown quality and deserve a chance.”

He added that local players bring hunger and commitment to the national team, saying, “They are always proud to wear the jersey.”

However, a source close to the technical crew defended the list, insisting selections were based on current form and tactical needs. “The coach picked players he believes can deliver results now,” the source said.