The appointment of Finidi George as the new head coach of the Super Eagles has brought a wave of change and excitement to the Nigerian squad. With the UEFA Europa League champion Ademola Lookman and current African Player of the Year Victor Osimhen headlining the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, it is evident that there is a shift towards more attacking football under Finidi’s leadership.
One of the key areas that have been addressed in the squad selection is the midfield. In the past, complaints about the lack of depth in the midfield have been persistent, with as few as four players named on some occasions. However, Finidi appears to have listened to these concerns and has named six central midfielders in the squad. The inclusion of players like Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, and Raphael Onyedika provides a mix of steel and subtlety in the central areas, indicating a more solid midfield setup for the Super Eagles.
Finidi has hinted at a change in formation for the team, moving away from the defensive tactics that were employed at the Nations Cup. The coach has suggested a switch back to a 4-3-3 formation from the 3-4-3 setup used previously. This change in formation reflects Finidi’s desire to strike a balance between attacking and defending, with a focus on utilizing the attacking prowess of the players at his disposal.
The ongoing competition between Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho for the goalkeeper position continues, with Okoye being favored in the latest squad selection. While Uzoho’s exclusion has raised eyebrows, it appears to be a strategic decision by Finidi based on current form and performance. This decision highlights Finidi’s willingness to make tough calls and assess players closely to find the best options for the team.
Despite his close relationship with the Nigeria domestic league, Finidi has only selected two domestic league players in the squad. This decision may come as a surprise to some, given the expectations that Finidi would include more local players in the squad. However, the inclusion of Remo Stars’ Sadiq Ismail demonstrates Finidi’s trust in domestic league talent, especially considering Ismail’s impressive performance in the NPFL.
Finidi has expressed a desire to shift the team towards a more attacking mindset while maintaining a balance between defense and attack. The coach recognizes the need for the team to be more proactive in going forward, especially after their defensive approach at the AFCON. By finding the right balance between attacking and defending, Finidi aims to maximize the potential of the players and achieve better results on the field.
Finidi George’s appointment as the head coach of the Super Eagles marks a new era for the Nigerian national team. With a focus on attacking football, reinforced midfield, tactical adjustments, and a mix of local and international talent, Finidi is steering the team in a new direction. As the Super Eagles gear up for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin, fans can expect to see a more dynamic and balanced approach under Finidi’s leadership.
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