Samson Siasia has received strong endorsement from Dutch coach Simon Kalika for the Nigeria U-23 Eagles head coach position, with Kalika citing Siasia’s proven track record and talent development success as key reasons for his support. The announcement comes as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) moves to appoint a permanent coach for the U-23 men’s national team, with Siasia and Daniel Amokachi emerging as the top contenders. Kalika, who worked closely with Siasia during the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands and the 2008 Beijing Olympics, spoke exclusively to Completesports.com from his home country, emphasizing that his backing is based on merit and performance, not personal ties.
Kalika stressed that if the NFF evaluates candidates purely on achievements, experience, and results, Siasia clearly stands out. “If you have a piece of paper and pen in your hand and begin to list the achievements of the two coaches — Amokachi and Siasia — you would know who among the two has far better achievements,” Kalika said. He pointed out that Siasia’s accomplishments, including winning silver medals at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2008 Olympic Games, are not easily matched. These successes, according to Kalika, reflect not just tactical competence but also the ability to lead young players to the highest levels of international football.
Beyond trophies, Kalika highlighted Siasia’s exceptional talent-spotting abilities, noting how he developed future Super Eagles stars like Obinna Nsofor, John Obi Mikel, and Felix Onyedika Ogbuke. “He has eyes for scouting talents and developing them into Super Eagles and global football stars,” Kalika said, underscoring Siasia’s long-term impact on Nigerian football. This legacy, he argued, makes Siasia the most qualified candidate for the U-23 Eagles role.
While Kalika acknowledged Daniel Amokachi’s impressive playing career, including his leadership of the Super Eagles and performances at World Cup and AFCON tournaments, he suggested a different role for the 53-year-old. “I’m not saying that Amokachi isn’t good. He was a great player during his playing days in Europe and for the Super Eagles, which he captained at some point,” Kalika noted. He recommended that Amokachi be considered for the Super Eagles assistant coach position instead, allowing him to contribute his experience at the senior level.
Samson Siasia, now 58, remains one of the most respected figures in Nigerian football coaching, with a career marked by consistent success at youth levels. As the NFF finalizes its decision, Kalika’s endorsement adds weight to the growing support for Siasia, who continues to be seen as a key figure in shaping Nigeria’s future football stars. The appointment of a new U-23 coach will be a crucial step in preparing Nigeria’s next generation for major tournaments, and Siasia’s experience may prove decisive in building a strong foundation for years to come.
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