Nigeria head coach Hakeem Busari insists his side must match the character and intensity of their semi-final performance against Japan in the final if they are to lift the trophy, warning that their upcoming final opponent presents a familiar tactical challenge.

​Reflecting on their convincing display against DPR Korea, Busari recounted that Japan share a similar footballing philosophy, making high-level preparation and discipline essential for the deciding clash.

​"It's just about showing the same character and playing the same way we played against North Korea, because they play with the same philosophy," Busari told media during the final pre-match press conference.

 "They want to build from the back, look for high-line passing lanes, and get their full-backs high up to support. We’ve analyzed all of that. I'm excited and happy to be here, but our main goal is to pick up the trophy, that would be the icing on the cake."

​While recognizing similarities between their previous opponents and their upcoming rivals, Busari emphasized that a final demands an entirely fresh mindset.

​"From what we saw against DPR Korea, that's the core of what we should expect from the Japanese," he explained.

 "But every final is a different ballgame. Neither team will play the exact same way. At this level, what really matters is the character, mentality, and attitude you bring into the match."

​The Nigerian team's journey to the final required tactical adjustments and significant mental conditioning, particularly after an opening-game setback. Busari highlighted the importance of sports psychology when managing a young squad through the high-stakes tournament.

​"After our first game, we had to sit the team down and work on them psychologically," Busari shared. "We talked through our game plan and reinforced everything we had been building in training. Because of their young age, it wasn't about pressure - it was about counseling them and helping them shift their attitude. Those off-pitch conversations made all the difference."

​With history on the line, Busari credited his squad for putting Nigeria within touching distance of international silverware, framing the potential victory as a triumph for the entire continent.

​"Winning this would be a massive boost for Africa, for Nigeria, for my own career, and especially for the players - they are the gladiators out there," he said.

 "Without them, none of this would be possible. Reaching a final at this level is a huge achievement, and we are working tirelessly to finish the job."

​As kick-off approaches, the Nigerian manager remains laser-focused on keeping his players grounded for one final push.

​"We need to ensure our mentality is right and pass that focus down to the players so they understand the job isn't done yet," Busari added. "We're still in the race, and we have to fight right up until the final whistle."