Finidi George Explains How Osimhen’s AFCON Performance Impacted Nigeria’s Game Against Ghana: Video

• Nigeria's Super Eagles secured a victory in the international friendly clash against Ghana
• Marquee forward, Victor Osimhen, was a major absentee due to a recent resurfacing injury
• Coach, Finidi George, has explained how the striker's AFCON performance impacted Nigeria's tactics

The Super Eagles coasted to a relatively comfortable victory against West African rival, Ghana, in their international friendly at the Stade de Marrakech in Morocco.

Nigeria surged into the lead courtesy of a first-half penalty from forward Cyriel Dessers, before Atalanta attacker, Ademola Lookman, doubled the lead for the Super Eagles, ensuring an easy victory.

However, following the conclusion of the fixture, Nigeria's coach, Finidi George, took time to explain how Victor Osimhen's performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast impacted the formation with which his team set up.

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Finidi speaks on Super Eagles' tactics

Speaking to the media, as reported by Nigeria football expert, Tobi Adepoju, following the conclusion of the game, the 52-year-old coach took time to explain his side's tactics during the clash.

The former Real Betis winger touched on how Osimhen's performance at the AFCON impacted his formation.

Coach Finidi stated that the Napoli star was overworked at the tournament due to the 5-4-1 formation employed by former manager, Jose Peseiro.

However, despite aiming to build on the positives from the tournament, Finidi wanted to avoid his striker bearing such a burden; hence he opted for the 3-5-2 approach.

This tactic by coach Finidi appeared effective, as it ensured the Super Eagles had enough players to breach the passing style of play the Ghanaians were aiming to use on the night.

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The interim coach, however, will now hope his team can continue in such stride when they face Mali in their next fixture.

Dessers rates Nigeria’s performance

In another report, Sports Brief stated that forward Dessers rated Nigeria's outing against Ghana.

The 29-year-old was highly instrumental as the Super Eagles sealed a crucial win against the Black Stars.

The Rangers forward, who opened the scoring for Nigeria on the night, expressed how impressive the victory was for the Super Eagles.

He also expressed his delight in Kelechi Iheanacho, allowing him to take the spot kick that put Nigeria in the lead.