Former Super Eagles forward, Osaze Odemwingie, has called for the Nigerian national team to revert to their traditional style of play.

Speaking on “No Holds Barred” with Ifeanyi Udeze on Brila FM, the 43-year-old, now a professional golfer, emphasized the importance of the 4-4-2 formation for Nigeria.

Peter Odemwingie and Emmanuel Mbola during the Africa Cup of Nations. (Photo by Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

“But one thing is about formation, because you just mentioned formation, the 4-4-2 which Nigeria hasn’t been playing for many years. And I think that’s a big mistake we are making because that’s our traditional type of football.

“We have the players that can run, and we have the players that can hold up play with their backs to the defenders. So sometimes the 4-4-2 formation is so important for the Nigerian national team because that’s who we are,” Odemwingie stated.

Reflecting on the last African Cup of Nations, Odemwingie criticized the team’s style of play.

Nigeria Manager Jose Peseiro talks to Victor Osimhen during the CAF Africa Cup of Nations group stage match. at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)

“Personally, I didn’t enjoy watching our team play in the last Nations Cup because we didn’t perform like our usual selves.

“We need to play defensively against top teams like Germany, Argentina, and Brazil, but be more ambitious in the African Cup.”

Nigeria’s Style of Play

One of the serious problems currently facing the national team is the lack of a clear style of play.

Despite the abundance of talent, Nigeria has struggled to adopt an attacking-minded approach.

This issue has been evident, even though playing defensively led the Super Eagles to the final of AFCON.

However, this strategy has sometimes undermined players who were played out of their natural positions.

With the national team in a crucial period without a head coach, and important matches looming in the World Cup qualifiers and AFCON qualifiers.

The incoming coach should prioritize reestablishing a clear and effective style of play, potentially reverting to the traditional 4-4-2 formation that has historically suited the team.

This approach could leverage Nigeria’s strengths and ensure that the team performs to its full potential on the international stage and dramatically secure a World Cup ticket.