Super Eagles coach Finidi George has emphasized that his primary focus is on winning games rather than adhering to a specific formation. During his recent media tours across Nigeria, Finidi stressed that his coaching philosophy revolves around his players’ ability to discern when to attack and when to defend.
Having been involved with the Super Eagles managerial setup for the past 23 months, Finidi’s familiarity with the team played a role in his appointment as the team’s permanent coach following Jose Peseiro’s departure.
During the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Super Eagles frequently utilized a defensive-minded 3-4-3 formation, which faced criticism despite leading the team to the tournament final, where they lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast.
Speaking in an interview with Brilla FM on Wednesday, May 22, Finidi George stated, “My philosophy is centered on winning. Formation is secondary because if players understand when to attack and when to defend, there shouldn’t be any issues.”
“We can adopt various formations such as 3-5-2 or 4-4-2, but as long as the players comprehend their roles in both attacking and defending, the team should function effectively. This is a fundamental aspect of football, and players must grasp these moments,” he added.
Football enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating how Finidi George will implement his preferred style of play as the Super Eagles face South Africa on June 7 and Benin Republic on June 10. These matches are crucial for the Eagles as they continue their quest for qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.