Rivers United head coach, Finidi George, has explained why Nigerian players often adopt a cautious, defensive approach when playing away from home in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), describing it as a deeply ingrained habit rather than a tactical preference.
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Speaking after Rivers United 0-0 draw with Rangers, the former Super Eagles winger admitted that while he prefers a more proactive style of play, the reality of the domestic league often influences players’ decisions on the pitch.
“Football being what it is, we know it’s a difficult place to play, and most especially when Nigerian players go away from home,” Finidi said.
“When the game is 0-0, they tend to sit back a little bit. That is not my way of playing, but it’s a Nigerian thing.”
Finidi noted that even when his team tries to push forward and maintain attacking intent, players are often more comfortable dropping deep, particularly in the second half.
“These players are used to defending that deep sometimes, especially in the second half. It’s not my wish for them to play that way, but that’s how it is. It’s not the first match we have played this way and it’s not going to be the last,” he added.
The former Ajax star also revealed that this conservative approach is not limited to away matches, as similar patterns sometimes emerge even at home.
“Sometimes we play at home, we score a goal and we expect the players to push for a second goal, but they tend to sit back. Even at home games, it’s a normal thing. So we are quite happy with this draw here,” Finidi stated.
