No rift between Ilechukwu, Ogunmodede, says Eguavoen

Interim Super Eagles coach, Austin Eguavoen, has confirmed that the relationship between his two assistant coaches, Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, remains strong despite a recent media exchange involving the two coaches, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The two coaches, who have enjoyed a positive relationship over the years, engaged in a public outburst following their Nigeria Premier Football League clash involving Remo Stars and Enugu Rangers in Ikenne a week ago.

Remo Stars won the game 2-1, and Ilechukwu voiced his disappointment with Ogunmodede’s behaviour during the match, accusing him of acting overly desperate to secure a win.

Reacting to Ilechukwu’s comment, the Remo Stars’ coach suggested that Ilechukwu’s frustration stemmed from the nature of the defeat.

The exchange got a lot of football enthusiasts worried with both coaches expected to come together for national duties.

Speaking with the Eagles media team on Tuesday, Eguavoen assured that there was no fight between the two coaches followed by a video of the two hugging.

“Ilechukwu came in after Rangers’ games and Ogunmodede came in as well and they hugged each other. There is no fight between them and it is normal for teams to go against each other and tensions rising. Things like that are expected and that is by the way but we are here to do a job for Nigeria.”

Eguavoen’s assuring words will come as a big relief to many fans who have expressed concerns about the two assistant coaches ahead of Nigeria’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya.

The Eagles will take on the Mediterranean Knights in the first leg of the doubleheader clash on Friday, October 11, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium before both sides trade tackles at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, Libya four days later.

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