Samson Siasia, the renowned former Super Eagles coach and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, is on a mission. Despite facing a five-year ban from FIFA, which is set to conclude in August 2024, Siasia is determined to make a triumphant return to the world of football.
In August 2019, FIFA handed Siasia a lifetime ban from all football-related activities and imposed a hefty fine of 50,000 Swiss Francs. The ban was a result of allegations that he had accepted bribes to manipulate match outcomes, following an investigation linked to convicted match-fixer Wilson Perumal.
However, Siasia’s unwavering spirit and resilience have been rewarded. After a successful appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), his lifetime ban was reduced to five years, and the financial penalty was dismissed. The CAS panel deemed the initial life sentence disproportionate for a first-time offense that had no immediate negative impact on football stakeholders.
The impact of the ban on Siasia cannot be understated. He confessed that football had been the centerpiece of his life for three-quarters of his existence, both as a player and a coach. Despite the setback, he remains resolute, expressing his determination to rebuild and emerge even stronger.
“It’s 2024, it is almost over. So, I just need to build again, to be strong moving forward. I was doing very well as a coach before this ban hit me. But it’s almost over, and I’m coming back bigger and stronger,” Siasia affirmed.
Siasia’s story is not just one of personal resilience and redemption, but also a testament to the enduring allure of football. As the countdown to his return continues, the footballing world awaits the resurgence of a coach who is poised to reclaim his status on the global stage.
