Friendly: Mali Record First Win Against Super Eagles In 49 Years

The Eagles of Mali defeated Nigeria’s Super Eagles 2-0 in a friendly game in Marrakech, Morocco on Tuesday night.

Goals in each halves by El Bilal Toure and Kamory Doumbia sealed the win for Mali.

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.

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

The Malians dominated the early stages of the game but could not make their early pressure count.

In the 14th minute Mali almost took the lead but we’re denied by Stanley Nwabali.

The breakthrough for Mali eventually came in the 14th minute as a defensive error saw El Bilal Toure capitalise and scored.

Also Read: Friendly: Ghana’s Winless Run Continues After 2-2 Draw Against Uganda

The Eagles were forced into a first half change as Moses Simon went off injured on 34 minutes and was replaced by Cyriel Dessers.

The early part of the second half saw the Super Eagles start brightly but the Malian defence held firm.

Despite starting the half on a positive note, it was Mali who almost doubled their lead but the Eagles defence intercepted a dangerous cross from the left.

On 65 minutes Dessers with a big opportunity as he was sent through on goal but shot horribly over the bar with the keeper to beat.

In the 66th minute Iheanacho took a low shot which was parried away for a corner.

With 12 minutes left the Eagles won a freekick in a decent position but Iheanacho’s floated attempt was cleared away.

Mali then doubled their lead on 87 minutes thanks to Kamory Doumbia who raced into the Eagles’ 18 yard box and fired past Nwabali.

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