How Should Finidi George Approach The Encounter Against South Africa?

Against Mali in Nigeria’s second game with Head Coach Finidi George in charge, flimsy mistakes, porous defending and rudimentary routines in front contributed to the loss.

I will be looking to see whether lessons were learnt from that encounter.

Nigeria gave Mali too much leeway at the back whilst not doing enough to wound Mali upfront.

I will expect more penetrative routines and much leadership at the back to keep the kernel locked.

It will also be interesting to see how the Super Eagles manage to dominate the midfield.

South Africa has more superior routines buttered with fluid and incisive movements.

If Nigeria plays with an attacking philosophy with high degree of communication and understanding, then a good outcome is possible.

We have the better players but South Africa are a more cohesive unit. If Finidi can select the right players who fit into his approach and blends them together, they could be too much for South Africa to handle.

Finidi and his management team should be bold and make brave decisions. If he insists on his 3-5-2 formation, then movements woven into it must be executed with organisation and discipline.

I am sort of getting a good feeling about the match. I think the boys will turn up. I believe they will enhance their application of instructions Finidi issues with professionalism and purpose.