National Teams
FIFA WCQ Playoffs: Ex-Nigeria coach Simon Kalika urges offensive tactics vs DR Congo
By Wale Mustapha
Former assistant coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Simon Kalika, has urged the team to adopt an aggressive attacking approach in their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo this Sunday in Rabat.
Kalika, who served as part of the coaching staff during the Super Eagles’ past campaigns, believes Nigeria should maintain their attacking momentum after scoring 10 goals in their last three matches.
The Super Eagles will face DR Congo at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex, where Kalika is confident that an early goal will put the Congolese under immense pressure.
“The Super Eagles must be on the offensive and ensure they score within the first 20 minutes,” Kalika told Completesports.com ahead of the match.
“If they get the early goal, the Congolese will be under pressure, and the Super Eagles will confidently control the game.”
Kalika’s advice comes as Nigeria looks to extend their impressive attacking form under coach Eric Chelle, who has overseen a revitalization of the squad.
With key players like Victor Osimhen in excellent form, Nigeria’s attacking prowess will be critical in the final against DR Congo, who will be looking to frustrate the Super Eagles with their defensive discipline and physical style of play.
The game, set to kick off at 8pm Nigerian time, will determine which team advances to the next stage of the World Cup qualifying process.
Kalika’s strategy is simple with striking early and take control of the match, avoiding any risk of falling into DR Congo’s counter-attacking traps.
For Nigeria, maintaining their offensive mindset could be the key to securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
