German coach and FIH coaching instructor Michael Berhman has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s men’s and women’s national hockey teams ahead of the All African Games.
Berhman, who has been working closely with both teams during their preparations, said he has been impressed by the players’ technical ability, movement and overall understanding of the game.
According to the German coach, the Nigerian teams already possess many of the qualities required to compete effectively at the continental level and only need to make a few adjustments before the competition.
“I have been impressed with their skills, techniques and movement. They only need a few additional details.”
Berhman’s assessment comes as Nigeria continues preparations for the continental competition, with the coaching staff working to sharpen the team’s tactical organisation and improve their execution in key areas.
The FIH instructor has previously called for greater international exposure for Nigerian hockey, arguing that domestic players and clubs need more opportunities to compete against stronger opposition in order to accelerate their development.
That exposure could prove important for the national teams as they seek to close the gap with Africa’s established hockey nations.
Berhman believes the foundation is already present within the Nigerian squads, with the players demonstrating the technical ability and athletic qualities needed to compete at a higher level.
The final stage of preparation will therefore focus on refining the details of the teams’ play, improving coordination and ensuring the players can translate their individual skills into an effective collective performance.
Nigeria’s participation in major continental competitions also provides an important opportunity to expose the country’s players to high-level opposition and assess the progress being made within the domestic hockey development system.
*With Berhman encouraged by the teams’ technical level, Nigeria’s focus now turns to sharpening the finer details before the men’s and women’s sides take on Africa’s best.*
