Godswill Akpabio United head coach, Edward Green, has outlined what he expects from his players as they prepare for their away encounter against Stormers SC in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

With the league returning this weekend, Green knows that his side will need more than just enthusiasm to get a positive result in Abeokuta. For the coach, staying organised, keeping a cool head and playing with confidence will be important if his team are to make a good impression away from home.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Green identified four areas he wants his team to focus on: defensive resilience and compactness, emotional control, simple tactical execution and the ability to manage the tempo of the game.

He believes his players must first understand the importance of defending together and staying compact, especially against an opponent they will be facing on their home ground.

The coach also spoke about the importance of his own conduct during the game, admitting that his reactions on the touchline could influence how his players respond to situations on the pitch.

Green explained that he must remain calm and manage his emotions because the players will be watching him, and how he reacts could have an effect on their confidence and overall approach to the game.

He also wants to make things as simple as possible for his players tactically, ensuring that everyone understands what is expected of them and can carry out their responsibilities without unnecessary complications.

On the need to control the game, the coach stressed that his team must learn how to manage the tempo, knowing when to take control and how to approach different moments of the encounter.

Putting his thoughts into perspective, Green said:

“First, we have to be Defensive Resilience & Compact.

Secondly, I have to Manage Emotion because my players will be watching the way I react, as this has a way of affecting them.

Thirdly, I have to Simplified Tactical Execution for them.

Lastly, try Controlling the Match Tempo.

In all of this, we want to play and play well.”

Beyond the four areas he highlighted, Green’s message is clear: he wants his players to go into the game with confidence, understand their roles and enjoy their football while remaining disciplined.

An away fixture is never an easy assignment, but the Godswill Akpabio United coach appears keen to ensure that his team do not approach the contest with fear. Rather, he wants a side that can defend when necessary, keep possession, make good decisions and play with purpose.

As they head to Abeokuta to face Stormers SC, the focus will now be on how well the players translate their coach’s ideas into action on the pitch.

For Green, getting the result matters, but so does the manner in which his team goes about the job. He wants to see Godswill Akpabio United compete, express themselves and, above all, play good football.

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