Former Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro has shared his personal experiences with cup finals, revealing that while the 2024 AFCON final loss with Nigeria was tough, it pales in comparison to another defeat that left a deeper scar.
He explained this sentiment by recalling the stark contrast in how he and his teams were treated after losing respective cup finals.
Speaking on the Portuguese television program “Futebol Total,” Peseiro confessed, “Compared to the AFCON final, Sporting's one hurts more.”
Peseiro details while Nigeria AFCON loss was less painful
While the Super Eagles were welcomed back with “a dinner hosted by President Bola Tinubu” and “national honours,” his experience with Sporting CP was far less comforting.
“We reached the final, we lost, and we didn't even have dinner together. Sporting didn't even give us a dinner,” Peseiro stated, highlighting the club's disregard for the team after their defeat.
He went on to share a contrasting experience from his time with Manchester United.
Despite losing the League Cup final, Peseiro revealed, “There was a party scheduled, even though we lost. A party with a rock group that came from Manchester.”
He described the difference in treatment profoundly impacting him, stating, “In other words, at Sporting, we didn't even have a party, which hurt more.”
Peseiro reveals Sporting no-show
Peseiro further elaborated on the emotional toll of the Sporting CP loss, saying, “At Sporting, it was a disappointment for everyone.
“When this happens and it's so sad, it obviously becomes more marked. I was very sad… It was only two years later that I reviewed the game. Not here (AFCON).
“After four days, I was watching the game. It was another age and another way of thinking.”
This revelation offers a unique window into the mind of the Super Eagles coach, showcasing that while his Nigerian experience has its own challenges and rewards, the lack of support and recognition from Sporting CP following their cup final loss remains a deeper personal wound.
Peseiro has been a subject of interest for a few countries after he led Nigeria to a podium finish at the last AFCON.
Subsequently, he has been linked with several coaching positions at other national teams.
