Finidi Prepares Nigeria’s Squad for Crucial World Cup Qualifiers vs South Africa and Benin: Report

• Finidi George is set to commence his reign as coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria
• The 53-year-old’s first task is a FIFA World Cup qualifier clash against South Africa
• Reports have suggested the manager has drawn up his squad list for the crucial game

Finidi George is ensuring his tenure as coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria begins on the perfect note.

The newly appointed manager, who is barely a month away from his first assignment as permanent head coach, is faced with the daunting task of securing crucial victories in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series against South Africa and the Republic of Benin.

Seemingly undeterred by the challenging nature of the fixtures ahead, reports of the 53-year-old eyeing early preparation and drafting out the squad list for the clash have emerged.

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Finidi’s squad list for South Africa’s clash surfaces

According to a report from OwnGoalNigeria, Coach Finidi's squad list for the upcoming crucial fixtures is expected to include a significant number of players, who were part of his interim management during the March international window.

However, there are anticipated to be a few new additions, notably the return of forward, Victor Boniface and combative midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi, both returning to the team after lengthy injuries.

The list is also likely to feature Rizespor attacker, Ibrahim Olawoyin, who has been one of the standout performers in the Turkish Super Lig this season.

Scheduled for June 7 and 10, both fixtures are pivotal for Coach Finidi to reignite Nigeria's FIFA World Cup qualification hopes after a lacklustre start with draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

A victory for the Super Eagles would not only boost their qualification prospects but also help ease the scepticism surrounding Finidi's appointment.

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NFF chief displeased with Finidi’s choices

Sports Brief also previously reported that a member of the technical committee of the NFF is displeased with coach Finidi and his rumoured choice of assistants.

The newly appointed manager reportedly submitted a shortlist of assistants that included three foreign managers, plus Daniel Amokachi and Abiodun Baruwa.

The committee member argued that it would have been more appropriate for the 53-year-old to choose entirely indigenous coaches for his backroom staff.