“My wife says I’m fat” – Super Eagles boss Peseiro explains his theatrics on Nigeria’s bench

The Portuguese tactician guided Nigeria to the semifinals of the continental championships, with the Eagles now two wins away from winning the title

Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro has revealed two main reasons he is an animated figure on the sidelines of Nigeria’s matches at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.

Peseiro has overcome several off-field troubles and harsh criticisms to lead Nigeria to the semifinals of the AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.

The Portuguese coach guided the Super Eagles to four wins and a draw, including the tough 1-0 victory over Angola in the quarterfinals of the competition on Saturday.

In that match, as in the other games, Peseiro watched every single minute, standing up, giving directions, and gesturing all the time.

The former Porto boss often shares in the Super Eagles’ celebrations, frustrations, and everything in-between.

When asked why he does not try to take a seat once in a while to rest his frame during games, Peseiro confessed that staying on his feet helps him drop a few kilograms – something that would delight his wife.

Peseiro also pointed out that his sideline theatrics did not start with the Super Eagles – it is a practice that has become a habit as he always has a thing or two to share with his players.

“If you know me, I’m like that on the bench,” Peseiro said, as per MaisFutebol.

“My wife says I’m fat and, if I’m standing up, I can lose four or five kilos, and she’ll be happier.

“Then, because I’m an interventionist coach, even though the players sometimes they don’t listen to me.”

Peseiro’s Super Eagles will battle with South Africa for the chance to play in the final of the AFCON slated for Abidjan next Sunday, February 11.