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| 2026 WCQ: Super Eagles to adopt offensive play with skilled attackers — Finidi |
Super Eagles' coach, Finidi George, has stated that the team cannot persist with the defensive style that brought them to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final in Cote d’Ivoire.
"With the quality of players we possess, we cannot afford to be overly defensive," Finidi remarked during his press tour.
Super Eagles' coach, Finidi George, has stated that the team cannot persist with the defensive style that brought them to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final in Cote d’Ivoire.
Despite having a wealth of attacking talent, the team's former coach, Jose Peseiro, chose a defensive strategy for the tournament.
The Super Eagles reached the final but were defeated 2-1 by the host nation.
Nevertheless, Finidi insists that with the high-quality forwards available to him, a defensive approach is no longer viable.
"With the quality of players we possess, we cannot afford to be overly defensive," Finidi remarked during his press tour.
"In soccer, maintaining a balance is crucial — knowing when to attack and when to defend. If the players understand their roles and we attack effectively while defending when necessary, we can improve.
We also found it challenging to advance, so achieving the right balance is essential.
"Perhaps we need to adjust our formation, moving a defender into the midfield."
Finidi is set to manage the Super Eagles in his first competitive match against South Africa next month.
