Mali Defeat Super Eagles for First Time In 49 Years

The Super Eagles of Nigeria fell to a 2-0 defeat to the Eagles of Mali in an international friendly game. The game was played in Marrakech, Morocco on Tuesday night. Nigeria, led by George Finidi, fell behind in the first half and struggled all through to get an equaliser only to concede yet another goal […]

The Super Eagles of Nigeria fell to a 2-0 defeat to the Eagles of Mali in an international friendly game.

The game was played in Marrakech, Morocco on Tuesday night.

Nigeria, led by George Finidi, fell behind in the first half and struggled all through to get an equaliser only to concede yet another goal late.

The last time Mali defeated the Super Eagles was on 5th September 1975, also in a friendly which ended 4-1.

Prior to Tuesday’s game, the Eagles were unbeaten in eight straight fixtures against the Malians, recording five wins and three draws.

Interim coach, Finidi George, gave starting shirts to Jamilu Collins, Raphael Onyedika, and Kenneth Omeruo.

The trio replaced Bruno Onyemaechi, Frank Onyeka and Benjamin Tanimu, who all featured in the 2-1 win against Ghana on Friday.

The loss was Finidi’s first at the helms of affairs following the expiration of Jose Peseiro’s contract.

Finidi won his first game in charge; the friendly against the Black Stars of Ghana.

Up next for Nigeria is the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa in June.