Former Nigeria international, Garba Lawal has advised Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr to use his strongest team when they face their opponents in the knockout stages of the ongoing AFCON 2019 in Egypt, Completesports.com reports.
Lawal, who starred for the Eagles at France ’98 World Cup and was a veteran of four AFCON editions – 2000 to 2006, says there is need for the team to regain their confidence going into the Round of 16.
The versatile player who was adept at playing as a defender, midfielder and as an attacker on the left wing advises that the coach must not allow the loss to Madagascar to affect the players’ psyche.
“You know I had earlier warned about the constant changing of the starting lineup by coach Rohr because such would not allow for continuity and balance needed in the team,” Lawal remarked.
“Madagascar came with a game plan – not to allow the Eagles to play and they succeeded. Both John Ogu and Leon Balogun could have done better on the error that resulted in the first goal, but that’s football.
“Now, the loss to Madagascar can put the Eagles under pressure because it is better to lose your first game and win the last two. The coach must work on the psyche of the players to regain their confidence and stop experimenting with the team.
“I think the Eagles would have learnt some lessons and that should help the team to bounce back stronger. I believe we are going to see a much better and stronger Eagles in the Round of 16, and with luck, they can still go far.
“It is good to see several young players coming up, but the team needs to start winning again to boost their confidence going forward,” concludes Lawal who stared for Roda JC of Holland and Levski Sofia of Bulgaria among other clubs during his playing days concluded.
By Sulaiman Alao
3 Comments
Am sorry I disagree team should loose them first game, they win two games and qualified what else do Nigerians want. Honestly speaking he is the gaffer, I understand players are telling him they don’t like his tactics, why is it now observers will be telling the coach field victor osihem field this and that, when Westhahof kept amuneke on the bench it was for a reason, if players cannot be calm with them coaches let them leave camp. Let’s allow this man do his job, too much interferences, Nigeria qualifies and will beat Cameroon mark my word.
You are a goat and a blind fool
Rohr is a clueless and empty head bastard with zero tactics
Well football is a game of luck, I wish SE best on Saturday