This Day (Lagos)

Nigeria/Mali: 'Eagles Will Be Tough,' Mali Coach Predicts

23 January 2008

Lagos — Coach of Mali Jean-François Jodar Ekondi has warned that the Group B fixture between Nigeria and Mali would be difficult.

The two Eagles will meet in Sekondi on Friday.

Mali sustained their hope to progress into the quarter finals after Fredi Kanoute scored from the penalty spot the 1-0 victory over Benin, while Nigeria were humbled by Cote d'Ivoire.

Frenchman Jodar said on Monday night that they would not take anything for granted because Nigeria is a dangerous team.

"Playing against Nigeria is going to be a tough test in the same mould as the match between Nigeria and Cote d'Ivoire. Nigeria is a dangerous team. We want to have a day rest before thinking on how to play the Super Eagles. The Eagles are injured after the loss to the Elephants. But I want to assure you that the match will be tight between two teams who want to win" Jodar said.

It was Nigeria that defeated Mali in the third place match in the 2002 and 2006 editions.

Tagged: Mali, Nigeria, Soccer, Sport, West Africa

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