former Super Eagles coach Finidi George disclosed that his team’s dismal performance in the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic was caused by the players’ lack of fitness. After the team’s 1-1 draw with South Africa and 1-2 loss to Benin Republic, Finidi, who was fired, blamed the players’ lack of match sharpness and fitness for the team’s difficulties.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
In a recent radio interview, Finidi explained that the players had just returned from vacation and were not yet at their best, making it difficult for him to achieve the desired results. He contrasted his situation with that of current coach Austine Eguavoen, who has enjoyed a winning start to his tenure.
“I wished they had played that way when I was the coach, but it didn’t happen,” Finidi said. “I am a Nigerian, and I wish the team all the best, but my focal point is not the Super Eagles for now. I am happy that they won the game, but if they had put up the same performance when I was in charge, we would have defeated Benin Republic a month or two ago.”
Finidi emphasized the importance of player fitness and match sharpness, citing the example of the European Championships, where players finished their league seasons before joining their national teams for the tournament. He lamented that the Super Eagles players did not resume camp early enough, leaving him with little time to work on their fitness levels before the games.
Finidi believes that if the games against Benin Republic had been played during the season, the results would have been different, and he might still be in charge. He congratulated Eguavoen on his winning start but noted that the current coach has an easier task with players who are now match-sharp and fit.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
