Finidi to Retain Peseiro’s AFCON Tactics With Lookman Likely to Be Dropped From Starting XI: Report

• The Super Eagles of Nigeria will lock horns with South Africa's Bafana Bafana in Uyo on June 7
• The fixture will be Finidi George's first assignment since appointed manager of the Super Eagles
• A report detailing the tactics Finidi could employ, alongside a peek into his starting XI, has surfaced

The highly anticipated FIFA qualification match between Nigeria and South Africa is fast approaching, with both African football powerhouses eager to secure a victory.

Nigeria enters this crucial clash dealing with a series of injuries that have sidelined several key players expected to feature in the match.

In response, head coach, Finidi George, is adjusting his team's setup to ensure a win against Bafana Bafana.

However, amid coach Finidi's efforts to maximise the crop of players available to him, a report has emerged outlining the tactical approach the 53-year-old might adopt against Hugo Broos' team.

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Finidi's tactical approach unveiled

According to a report from media outlet OwnGoalNigeria, Finidi is considering deploying the 3-5-2 formation that Nigeria used during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

The report suggests that Finidi's three-man defence could feature Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Benjamin Tanimu. In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Bayer Leverkusen's Victor Boniface are expected to play, with Boniface in a slightly advanced role. Bright Osayi-Samuel and Sadiq Ismail are set to provide width on the flanks.

Finidi plans to position Kelechi Iheanacho as one of the two centre-forwards, although Iheanacho's limited playing time in the recent season may prompt a change in this decision.

The report also highlights Finidi's concern about Ademola Lookman's delayed arrival. The Europa League final hero is expected to join the camp just 48 hours before the June 7 fixture. This delay could see Lookman start the match on the bench.

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According to data from FotMob, Nigeria will aim for their first 90-minute win against South Africa since their 2019 AFCON quarter-final clash in Egypt.

Nwabali speaks ahead of South Africa clash

In another report, Sports Brief stated Nigeria goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, discussed why he believes the Super Eagles will triumph over South Africa.

The 27-year-old emphasised the significant gap in quality between the two teams as a key factor favouring Nigeria.