Nigeria vs Ghana: 4 Things Finidi George Must Do to Ensure Super Eagles Seal Win Against Black Stars

• The Super Eagles of Nigeria are poised to lock horns with Ghana in Marrakech, Morocco
• The game between both West African nations is shaping up to be a pulsating encounter
• Sports Brief highlights things Nigeria's coach must do to avoid defeat against the Black Stars

The stage is set as another thrilling chapter in the intense rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana unfolds in the vibrant city of Marrakech, Morocco.

With new coaches at the helm for both teams, the stage is set for a thrilling display of football that is sure to captivate fans.

Both players and officials from both sides have been vocal, expressing unwavering confidence in their teams' ability to secure victory in this highly anticipated match, which undoubtedly transcends mere friendlies.

Nonetheless, as the Super Eagles prepare for their first game since the departure of former coach, Jose Peseiro, Sports Brief examines the key strategies interim manager, Finidi George, must implement to avoid defeat against the Black Stars.

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What Finidi must do to avoid defeat

Ideal player selection and formation

Selecting the optimal players and arranging them in a formation that maximises their strengths is crucial. It is essential to strike a balance between seasoned expertise and youths available to the team.

During the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, many of the Super Eagles' challenges stemmed from players being played out of position, most notably, Alex Iwobi.

A 4-3-3 formation could be advantageous, as it will see Iwobi assume a playmaker role in midfield and supply passes to the attacking trio.

Defensive solidity

If conclusions are being made from the recent performances of the Super Eagles, one thing that would be arrived at is the fact that the Nigerian team knows how to defend and do it effectively.

Against the marauding attackers of the Black Stars, Coach Finidi must ensure the backline is well-organized and reads the game effectively. Utilising the experience of Semi Ajayi alongside a young, pacey centre-back could be a strategic choice.

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Maximise set-piece

Set pieces have often proven to be game-changers in football, and Nigeria had first-hand experience in the final of the AFCON, where Ivory Coast's initial breakthrough, which spurred their resurgence, came from a set-piece situation.

The Nigerian team must ensure they maximise plays from set pieces, as it could serve as the margin between defeat and victory against the Ghanaians.

Tactical fluidity

Coach Finidi must also ensure he embraces tactical fluidity in his overall team approach.

One of Nigeria's greatest shortcomings in the final against Ivory Coast was the Super Eagles' inability to shift from their defensive setup to a high attacking approach, which could have changed the outcome of the game.

The Nigerian team should ensure such a repeat is not made and should embrace fluidity in their tactical approach.

Finidi sends warning to Ghana

In another report, Sports Brief highlighted that Super Eagles coach, Finidi, has warned Ghana in anticipation of their clash with Nigeria.

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The 52-year-old hinted at a fiercely contested fixture, emphasising that there would be no room for friendliness when they meet in Morocco.

The former Real Betis winger also underscored the importance of securing victory in the upcoming clash, as he seeks to impress the NFF.