Nigerians were shocked when the news of the death of Coach Festus Onigbinde broke out on Monday evening, 9/3/26. Adegboye Onigbinde, a former head coach of Nigeria’s national football team, Super Eagles is dead. Our correspondent understands that the Nigerian veteran football tactician, Onigbinde died late Monday evening, four days after celebrating his 88th birthday.
Mrs Bolade Adesuyi, who confirmed his passing away in a statement issued on behalf of the family which was available to Ayemafuge disclosed that the veteran football tactician had been ill for some time.
The Modakeke (Osun state) born Onigbinde, was one of Nigeria’s most respected football administrators and coaches.
He first took charge of the national team in 1983, succeeding Brazilian coach Otto Gloria.
During his tenure, he led the then Green Eagles of Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished runners-up.
Nearly two decades later, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde etched his name further into Nigerian football history when he became the first indigenous coach to lead the national team to the 2002 FIFA World Cup hosted by both Japan and South Korea.
He guided the Nigeria national football team to the tournament.
The veteran tactician was widely respected for his discipline, tactical knowledge and commitment to youth development, Onigbinde remained an influential voice in Nigerian football long after his coaching career.
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