Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Augustine Eguavoen, has expressed delight with his experience coaching the Super Falcons, admitting that working with female players presents a different challenge from coaching men.

Eguavoen, who recently guided the Falcons past Comoros in the 2028 Olympic qualifiers in Ikenne, Ogun State, said patience, understanding and the right approach were essential to managing the women’s national team.

The former Super Eagles coach explained that although the environment differs from what he is accustomed to, he has enjoyed the experience so far after spending about six or seven days working with the team.

“Coaching a different gender can be a little tricky, but I believe the key is patience and understanding how people feel, especially women. As a man, I think it is important to treat them with the same respect and consideration you would give your wife, daughters or children,” Eguavoen said.

He revealed that he had also sought guidance from men with experience working with women, noting that their advice had helped him better understand the demands of his new assignment.

“I have also been consulting men who have experience working with women, and their advice has been a tremendous help,” he added.

Eguavoen also cited French coach Hervé Renard as a source of inspiration, pointing to his experience managing both men’s and women’s national teams.

Renard won the Africa Cup of Nations with Zambia in 2012 and Côte d’Ivoire in 2015 before taking charge of the French women’s national team. He subsequently returned to men’s football with Saudi Arabia.

According to Eguavoen, Renard’s career demonstrates how coaches can adapt successfully to different teams and working environments, regardless of gender.

His remarks reflect his willingness to learn and adjust as he takes on responsibilities with the Super Falcons, following Nigeria’s progress in the qualifying campaign for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.