Rivers United head coach, Finidi George, has defined why Nigerian gamers usually undertake a cautious, defensive strategy when enjoying away from house within the Nigeria Premier Soccer League (NPFL), describing it as a deeply ingrained behavior moderately than a tactical choice.
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Talking after Rivers United 0-0 draw with Rangers, the previous Tremendous Eagles winger admitted that whereas he prefers a extra proactive model of play, the truth of the home league usually influences gamers’ choices on the pitch.
“Soccer being what it’s, we all know it’s a troublesome place to play, and most particularly when Nigerian gamers go away from house,” Finidi mentioned.
“When the sport is 0-0, they have an inclination to sit down again a bit of bit. That isn’t my means of enjoying, however it’s a Nigerian factor.”
Finidi famous that even when his crew tries to push ahead and keep attacking intent, gamers are sometimes extra snug dropping deep, significantly within the second half.
“These gamers are used to defending that deep typically, particularly within the second half. It’s not my want for them to play that means, however that’s how it’s. It’s not the primary match we’ve performed this manner and it’s not going to be the final,” he added.
The previous Ajax star additionally revealed that this conservative strategy isn’t restricted to away matches, as comparable patterns typically emerge even at house.
“Generally we play at house, we rating a objective and we count on the gamers to push for a second objective, however they have an inclination to sit down again. Even at house video games, it’s a traditional factor. So we’re fairly pleased with this draw right here,” Finidi acknowledged.
