Finidi George Responds to Critics, Promises Victories Against South Africa and Benin Republic

• Finidi George is talking tough ahead of his maiden official assignment as coach
• The appointment of the 53-year-old manager has been greeted with scepticism
• However, Finidi has promised victories in crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures

The Super Eagles of Nigeria face a challenging task ahead, needing to secure crucial victories in their upcoming fixtures to revive their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Nigerian team had faltered in their initial round of matches, recording underwhelming draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe in Group C.

These results have left the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finalists third in the standings, sparking concern about the prospect of the Super Eagles missing out on consecutive World Cup tournaments.

Nigerian-eligible players who may never play for the Super Eagles, including Noni Madueke

Football

However, if the worries are burgeoning, Finidi George's appointment as national team coach by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) did little to calm these concerns.

The appointment of the 53-year-old coach has been greeted with a palpable level of scepticism, especially considering the less-than-impressive outing the Nigerian team recorded during his reign as interim coach.

Despite these growing clouds of doubt, Finidi has made a subtle promise to his critics with regard to the upcoming round of fixtures.

Finidi makes a promise to his critics

In an interview with Guardian Nigeria, the Super Eagles coach discussed the crucial upcoming matches against Benin Republic and South Africa, emphasising his team's readiness for these important fixtures.

Qualifying against South Africa and Benin Republic is something all Nigerians should work together for. I'll give my best to get Nigeria to the World Cup. I've been talking to the players, and they're eager to do their best, especially after missing out on the last one in Qatar.

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Football

The former Ipswich Town attacker concluded by urging fans to support the team, countering the criticism that has followed the mixed results recorded during the March international window.

Nigeria will face off against South Africa and Benin Republic on June 7 and 10, respectively.

Finidi sets sights on Turkey-based midfielder for Super Eagles

Sports Brief also reported that Coach Finidi is eyeing Ibrahim Olawonyin for his first national team call-up.

The 26-year-old has been one of the standout stars in the 2023/24 Turkish Super Lig season with Rizespor.