“We can’t overload the players” – Super Eagles coach Finidi George reveals likely formation switch in Mali fixture

Finidi George used some new players in the fixture against Ghana, and he has admitted that there may also be some new faces in the second game against Mali

Super Eagles interim coach Finidi George has revealed that he will name some new players in Nigeria’s starting lineup for the game against Mali on Monday, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles won an impressive 2-1 over Ghana on Friday in Finidi’s first game in charge of the team.

It was their first game since the 2-1 loss to Côte d’Ivoire in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, and there were some changes to the team.

First, Finidi used a 3-5-2 formation instead of the 3-4-3 that Jose Peseiro used at the AFCON. Also, some players, like Wilfred Ndidi, Cyriel Dessers, Kelechi Ihenacho, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, returned to the starting lineup. Then, Benjamin Tanimu debuted for Nigeria as he started in defense.

Finidi was quite pleased with the fixture’s result, but ahead of the second game against Mali, the Enyimba boss revealed that there would be a few changes.

“Definitely, we are going to see new players. Definitely, we cannot overload the players. Some will come in, and we will see the areas where they can help,” Finidi said per NFF TV.

Despite the possible change in personnel, Finidi would be eyeing a victory, as this international friendly break is a chance for him to show what he can do if he gets the job permanently.

This post was last modified on March 23, 2024 1:43 pm

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.

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  • i want to see the third Keeper in goal even if it is for 30 mins in the first half .
    again those save by the choice keeper I can bet u is a good goal if it were to be another guy in pole .
    again no. 10 is needed.for trial .
    lastly the coach shud play friendlies game with club in Europe. to build cohesion. playerin friendlies with teams that are hurriedly put together can not be compared to playing with teams that are together for a year. .

  • We need a second creative mid fielder. We only have Iwobi doing that. if he gets injured then we bring in someone. Why can't we get someone like Akinwunmi Amoo? That guys plays like Messi and he is still young and very creative with the ball.

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