Nigeria 0-2 Mali: Super Eagles falter to Eagles in Finidi George’s second friendly match

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Nigeria’s national football team endured a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Mali in their second international friendly of the window, following a promising 2-1 victory over Ghana last week under interim coach Finidi George.

Played at the Stade de Madera in Morocco, the match showcased contrasting fortunes for the two sides.

Despite dominating possession, the Super Eagles failed to capitalize on their opportunities, while Mali capitalized on their limited possessions to create more scoring chances.

Mali’s El Bilal Toure opened the scoring in the 18th minute, putting Nigeria on the back foot.

As the match neared its end, Mamadou Doumbia assisted Kamoury Doumbia, sealing Mali’s victory with a late goal just three minutes before the final whistle.

With their sights set on the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Nigeria will regroup for their upcoming fixtures.

They are scheduled to host South Africa on June 5, followed by an away match against Benin Republic three days later.

Oluwaseun Oyediji

Oluwaseun Babatunde Oyediji is a multi-media sports journalist with over 10 years experience in Information Communication Technology (ICT), women's football, and beach soccer reportage.The prolific writer is the Media Assistant to Nigeria Beach Soccer League and Africa Beach Soccer Union as well as contributor on Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) website.He has covered multiple national and international football tournaments including Championship of African Nations (CHAN 2020), CAF Women's Champions League (2023), and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023).Since 2021, Oyediji has covered the NWFL Premiership especially the season ending Super Six Playoffs.A member of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun state chapter is also the image maker of the Remo Sports Development Council under the leadership of Chief Falilat Ogunkoya and David Osuolale.

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