– WAFCON 2004-winning coach
– Izilein dies at 81.

Godwin Izilein, Nigerian Football Coach, Dies at 81

Godwin Izilein

Godwin Izilein, one of Nigeria’s most accomplished football coaches and a former international player, has passed away at the age of 81. The sad news was confirmed by a member of the Izilein family, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, stating that the legendary coach died in a hospital in Benin City, the capital of Edo State. It has been reported that Izilein had been battling abdominal issues before his untimely demise.

Izilein’s contributions to Nigerian football are widely recognized, particularly his coaching achievements. He led the Super Falcons to victory in the 2004 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) held in Johannesburg. Additionally, he coached the Golden Eaglet at the African U-17 Championship in 2005, leaving an indelible mark on the country’s football development.

The news of Izilein’s passing was also confirmed by Kehinde Osagiede, the Media Officer of Edo State-owned Bendel Insurance. Osagiede expressed deep sadness over the loss, highlighting Izilein’s significant role in discovering and nurturing football talents in Nigeria. He described the late coach as a former Insurance coach who dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the development of both male and female players in the country.

Remembering a Legendary Coach

Godwin Izilein is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s best indigenous coaches, with numerous achievements under his belt. One of his most notable accomplishments was leading the Super Falcons to their sixth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations victory in South Africa in 2004. However, this triumph was not without controversy.

Following their successful campaign, the Falcons players protested, demanding their camp allowances and winning bonuses in Johannesburg before returning home. This led to a dispute between the players and the federation officials, who believed Izilein had influenced the protest. As a result, the Nigeria Football Association board, led by Ibrahim Galadima at the time, refused to pay Izilein his entitlements amounting to $12,000. Subsequent boards also failed to honor the payment over the years.

In his final interviews with The PUNCH, Izilein had pleaded with the Nigeria Football Federation to settle his outstanding allowances. He expressed his disappointment at not receiving the $12,000 owed to him since 2004, as well as the N2 million promised by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Izilein emphasized that he had done nothing wrong and was deeply affected by the situation.

Besides his achievements on the national stage, Izilein also made significant contributions at the club level. He managed local sides NNB FC and Bendel Insurance, leaving a lasting impact on the development of football in Nigeria.

The passing of Godwin Izilein is a great loss to the Nigerian football community. His dedication to the sport and his commitment to nurturing young talents will always be remembered. As the nation mourns his loss, it is important to recognize his significant contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.