Skip to content

World Cup: Stephen Keshi steps down as Nigeria coach

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi during a World Cup Round of 16 football match v France at Mane Garrincha National Stadium in Brasilia
Image: Stephen Keshi: Stepping down from post

Stephen Keshi has announced he is stepping down as Nigeria coach following the World Cup defeat to France.

The Super Eagles pushed France hard in their second round match in Brasilia on Monday, only for Paul Pogba's late header and a last-gasp own goal by Joseph Yobo to seal a 2-0 win for Les Bleus.

It appears that will be Nigeria's final match under Keshi, who said: "It's time for me to go back to my family and face fresh challenges."

The 52-year-old, who took over in 2011, has been linked with the South Africa job.

Keshi has resigned his post once before, a day after winning last year's African Nations Cup, but was persuaded to stay on.

More from World Cup Round Of 16

Former Everton centre-half Yobo is also on his way out. The Fenerbahce defender became the first Nigerian to win 100 caps during the game against Les Bleus and confirmed soon afterwards that he would be retiring from international football.

Around Sky