Lagos — Mali hardman Momo Sissoko yesterday tipped Mali to win the battle of the two Eagles this night in Sekondi.

The Group B fixture will be played immediately after the match between Cote d'Ivoire and Benin at the same venue.

Nigeria are under fire to record their first win after losing to Mali 1-0 in their opening match on Monday while Mali hope to advance to the quarter final by sealing their second victory after their slim win over Benin.

Sissoko, who plays for Liverpool said after the team's training that the under-achieving Malians would not show Nigeria any respect today.

"We will have to beat Nigeria . I am sure we can achieve that. But we need some luck and should take our chances when they come. I am positive Mali will qualify from the group" said the player touted to be on his way from Liverpool to Juventus.

So intense is the build up to the match that the Super Eagles have vowed to show some urgency in their approach to the match as anything short of victory will lead to their elimination from the tournament.

Mali coach Mali Jean-François Jodar has already described Nigeria as a difficult team.

Jodar predicted a tough outing because Nigeria is injured following the defeat to Cote d'Ivoire .

"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. But I want to assure you that the match will be tight between two teams who want to win" Jodar said.