National Teams
FIFA WCQ: South Africa coach expects different Super Eagles under Finidi George
By Wale Mustapha
Head Coach of South Africa’s national football team, Hugo Broos, has acknowledged that Nigeria’s Super Eagles have undergone significant changes under new Head Coach, George Finidi.
Broos shared his insights ahead of their upcoming clash in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, scheduled for next Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Broos pointed out the differences between the current Super Eagles team and the one managed by Jose Peseiro, under whom Nigeria triumphed over South Africa through penalties at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
“With Finidi George, they have a coach who thinks more offensively. Peseiro was a little bit more defensive, and I saw that certainly in the game against us; he was always telling the team to go back,” Broos explained.
The interim appointment of Finidi saw him lead the Super Eagles in friendlies against Ghana and Mali, showcasing a more aggressive approach compared to Peseiro’s tenure. Broos has been analyzing these changes and is strategizing on how to counter the new tactics.
“In the final, they didn’t really play offensively; they just tried to be good defensively and then hoped for a counterattack or a situation in front of the goal where they could score,” Broos continued.
“I saw two games against Mali and Ghana, and it’s different now. They take a little bit more initiative. It’s not the team anymore that went back and waited. They also try to make pressure early in the game and close to the opponent’s goal.”
Despite acknowledging the improvements in the Nigerian squad, Broos remains confident in his team’s ability to deliver a strong performance.
“We will try to shock them again. It’s a little bit different than the team of AFCON. We have to look for something now that we can shock them again like we did for the game in Ivory Coast.”
As both teams prepare for this crucial qualifier, Broos’ strategic planning will be crucial in determining if South Africa can upset the rejuvenated Super Eagles.
