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Nigeria vs Mali: Finidi targets back-to-back wins as Super Eagles coach

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Interim Super Eagles coach Finidi George has reiterated his objective of securing back-to-back wins since he was appointed to take charge of Nigeria’s senior male football team as the team prepares to take on Mali on Tuesday at the Les Aigles of Mali in Marrakech.

Following a 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Ghana at the Grand Stade de Marrakech on Friday, March 22, Finidi is now focused on continuing the winning streak despite the absence of key players such as Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, William Ekong, Olaoluwa Aina, and Zaidu Sanusi due to various reasons, including injuries.

The former Ajax Amsterdam and Real Betis winger remains optimistic about the Super Eagles’ ability to come out victorious against Mali

“We cannot at this time be dwelling on the injuries and absences that we have to cope with,” Finidi said ahead of Mali cracker.

“Our intention has always been to win these two matches and then look forward to the World Cup qualifiers in June.

“We are determined to keep up the momentum and sustain the winning mentality derived from beating the Black Stars,” George said on Monday morning.”

Interestingly, Finidi’s last appearance for Nigeria, earning his 62nd cap, was against Mali. He was part of the squad that secured a 1-0 victory over Mali to claim the bronze medals in the 23rd Africa Cup of Nations in February 2002.

Mali, having demonstrated their readiness with a convincing 2-0 win over Mauritania, poses a formidable challenge for Nigeria.

However, with Finidi’s strategic approach and potential lineup adjustments, players like Kenneth Omeruo, Jamilu Collins, Alhassan Yusuf, Nathan Tella, and Sadiq Umar could play pivotal roles in the upcoming clash against Les Aigles.