The latest Nigeria squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers has been revealed, and it is clear that new head coach Finidi George has signaled his attacking intentions. With players like Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen leading the charge, it is evident that George is looking to bring a more aggressive style of play to the Super Eagles.
One of the key areas of concern in the past has been the lack of depth in the midfield for the Nigerian national team. However, George seems to have taken note of this issue and has named six central midfielders in the squad. This move shows that he is actively looking to address the paper-thin midfield concern that has plagued previous squads.
George has hinted at a potential change in formation for the upcoming matches. While the team played with a defensive 3-4-3 formation in the last AFCON, George is considering switching back to a more attacking 4-3-3 setup. This reflects his desire to find the right balance between attacking and defending, something that was lacking in their previous tournament performance.
The ongoing battle between Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho for the starting goalkeeper position continues, with Okoye currently in favor. This decision, along with other personnel changes, shows that George is open to making adjustments to find the best options available for the team. The willingness to switch things up indicates a sense of flexibility and adaptability on George’s part.
Despite his close ties to the Nigeria domestic league, George has only selected two domestic league players for the squad. This decision has raised questions, as many expected him to include more local players in the team. However, the inclusion of Remo Stars’ Sadiq Ismail highlights George’s knowledge of the domestic league talent pool and his willingness to give deserving players a chance on the international stage.
George has expressed his desire to shift the team towards a more attacking mindset after their defensive approach at the last AFCON. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right balance between attacking and defending, a philosophy that he intends to instill in the players. By emphasizing the need for proper balance in both aspects of the game, George hopes to improve the team’s overall performance on the field.
The Super Eagles under Finidi George are poised to make a statement in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. With a focus on attacking play, midfield reinforcements, formation changes, and a blend of domestic and international talent, George is looking to reshape the team and guide them to success. It remains to be seen how these adjustments will play out on the field, but one thing is certain – the Super Eagles are ready to soar under their new leadership.