Mali Vs Nigeria Match Preview (1 Viewer)

[Babayega]

Mali and Nigeria are set to clash in a showdown of the Eagles at Stade de Marrakech on Tuesday evening. This matchup marks the eighth encounter between the two nations, with their last meeting taking place in 2016.

Mali showcased their strength in their recent match, securing a 2-0 victory over Mauritania. Debutant center-back Modibo Sagnan opened the scoring just nine minutes into the game, followed by El Bilal Toure adding a second goal three minutes later.

Mali's win over Mauritania extended their unbeaten streak in matches lasting the full 90 minutes since the beginning of the year, having played seven games, including five at the previous AFCON tournament. However, they face a tough challenge against Nigeria, a team they have only defeated once in seven encounters, with four losses and two draws.

In their previous friendly encounter, Nigeria emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, courtesy of a goal from Kelechi Iheanacho. Nigeria comes into this match fresh off a 2-1 victory over Ghana in another international friendly. Super Eagles' Cyriel Dessers converted a penalty to give Nigeria the lead, with Ademola Lookman doubling their advantage later in the game. Despite a late penalty goal from Jordan Ayew for Ghana, Nigeria secured the win.

This match marks Finidi George's first game as interim coach of the Super Eagles. With the team's recent record in friendlies under scrutiny, George aims to secure another victory over Mali, potentially strengthening his claim for the permanent coaching position, as the Nigeria Football Federation evaluates candidates for the role.

INJURIES & SUSPENSION​

Mali introduced several debutants in their match against Mauritania, including Sagnan, Abdoulaye Diaby, and Daouda Guindo, who made their first appearances for the national team in their last outing.

Lassine Sinayoko, the team's top scorer at the AFCON with three goals, is anticipated to lead the attack once again.

Nigeria is likely to make several changes to the starting lineup compared to their previous match against Ghana. Lookman and Umar Sadiq could replace Iheanacho and Dessers in the attack, while Fisayo-Dele Bashiru might feature in midfield at some point.

In defense, Calvin Bassey is expected to return to the starting lineup alongside Kenneth Omeruo.

POSSIBLE LINE-UPS​

Mali possible starting lineup:
Diarra; Sacko, Diaby, Sagnan, Guindo; Coulibaly, Samassekou, Haidara; Doumbia; Toure, Sinayoko

Nigeria possible starting lineup:
Nwabali; Ajayi, Omeruo, Bassey; Osayi-Samuel, Ndidi, Onyeka, Onyemaechi; Iwobi, Lookman; Umar

EXPERT PREDICTION​

TAP TO SEE OUR PREDICTION

Mali 1-3 Nigeria

Nigeria holds the advantage in terms of team strength for this match, particularly considering that Mali is missing some key players. Given that the Super Eagles are playing without pressure, we believe they will likely win this game, mainly because of their quality in scoring goals.