Nigeria World Cup star Benedict Akwuegbu has become the first black man in the coaching crew of a professional club side in Austria after he joined second tier FC Gratkorn in a one-and-a-half year deal as a co-trainer.
Benedict Akwuegbu played for Nigeria at U-17, U-20, U-23 and senior levels. He was in the Super Eagles team that reached the final of the 2000 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil, but the highlight of his career was appearing at the 2002 World Cup, where he played in the Eagles’ 0-0 draw against England in a group game.
The Ex-Super Eagles striker, has a UEFA B License, and he is a cult hero in Austria, where he had an illustrious time playing for Grazer AK, FC Karnten and FC Wacker Innsbruck.
“This is a new challenge for me after retiring as a player. I hope to make the most of it. As the first Black man to manage a club in Austria, I know all eyes will be on me, so I will give it my all,” he said.
“My immediate task is to help the club gain promotion to the Premier League. I played under great coaches with different philosophies, so I know how to apply my experience. The players are happy having a World Cup player as coach,” Akwuegbu added.
Benedict Akwuegbu at the 2002 FIFA World Cup
