Former Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia, has expressed the deep sense of longing he experiences due to his absence from the world of football.
Siasia’s football career took a significant hit in August 2019 when FIFA imposed a lifetime ban on him and a $50,000 fine for his involvement in match manipulation related to betting, stemming from a wider investigation into manipulated matches by Wilson Perumal.
However, following an appeal in 2021, the Court of Arbitration for Sports reduced his ban to five years, set to expire in August 2024. Siasia eagerly anticipates his return to football.
Speaking during a radio interview on Kennis 104.1FM, Siasia shared his anticipation, saying, “I thought I would be free this year (2023), and I was thrilled.
But upon reviewing FIFA’s documents, I realized it would be next year. By August 2024, I’ll be free from the FIFA ban, and I hope to make my comeback in football.
Despite the challenges, I’ve learned valuable lessons, and I thank God for the reduction from a life ban to a five-year suspension.
It’s been a tough five years away from football, but I’m preparing myself to hit the ground running upon my return next year.”
Siasia also recounted the remarkable journey of his men’s U-23 team to the Rio 2016 Olympics, overcoming adversity to defeat Japan 4-3 in their opening group match.
He shared an incident involving a generous Japanese billionaire, Dr. Katsuya Takasu, who was so impressed that he presented a $200,000 check to the team and praised their performance.
In addition, Siasia called on Nigeria’s sports administrators to appreciate and celebrate medal winners at major tournaments.
He lamented the lack of recognition for the bronze medal won by his team at the Rio Olympics, emphasizing the importance of celebrating all medalists to inspire future generations of athletes.
Samson Siasia holds the distinction of being the only Nigerian coach to secure two Olympic medals with the U-23 team, winning silver in Beijing 2008 and bronze at the Rio 2016 Olympics.
