Mali vs Nigeria: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Published at :March 24, 2024 at 4:22 PM

Modified at :March 24, 2024 at 4:22 PM

African nations will continue the international break in Morocco

Mali have established themselves as one of the most organized teams in Africa. Their style of play reflects patience and a focus on maximizing their strengths. They started their international break with a 2-0 win against Mauritania and they will conclude their break against Nigeria.

Nigeria are set to clash in another international friendly in Morocco. Nigeria were determined to win and they bounced back from their devastating end to the AFCON. Despite their winning performance against Ghana, it was a very close match according to the standards of a friendly match. It was a show set up by two of Africa’s best nations.

Kick-off:

Wednesday, 27 March 2024 at 1:30 AM IST

Location: Marrakesh Stadium

Form

Mali (in all competitions): D-D-W-L-W

Nigeria (in all competitions): W-W-W-L-W

Players to watch out

Hamari Traore (Mali)

Hamari Traore, captain of Mali, has emerged as Mali’s standout defender, anchoring the right side of their defensive line with composure and efficiency. His consistent performance in keeping opposition attacks in check highlights his reliability. Mali will rely on Traore’s defensive leadership and solid presence in the upcoming game, as they seek to maintain defensive stability and control.

Alex Iwobi (Nigeria)

Alex Iwobi, although not characterized by the typical ‘lightning feet’ and precise close control often associated with Spanish players, displays a distinctive dribbling style. He navigates through tight spaces with a blend of creativity, improvisation, and cunning, reminiscent of his uncle Jay-Jay Okocha. Despite this, Iwobi’s decision-making and adept skill selection on the field stand out.

Match facts:

Nigeria have won the previous two matches against Mali.
Mali are unbeaten in their last four away games.
Nigeria have won six of their last seven international matches.

Injury and team news

Nigeria are bringing in talented newcomers for their first international call-ups, such as center-back Benjamin Tainimu, and young prospects Nathan Tella, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Tyronne Ebuehi. Osimhen will miss the upcoming match after suffering an injury.

Yves Bissouma, the highly regarded midfielder from Tottenham Hotspur and arguably Mali’s most beloved player, is notably absent from the squad. It’s anticipated that Diadie Samassekou from Cadiz CF will fill his spot in the starting lineup, joining forces with Lassana Coulibaly and Amadou Haidara in the midfield.

Head to Head

Total matches – 11

Mali wins – 2

Nigeria wins – 6

Draws – 3

Predicted lineup for Mali vs Nigeria

Mali predicted lineup

Diarra; H. Traore, Kouyate, Niakate, Sacko; Coulibaly, Samassekou, Haidara; Doumbia; A. Traore, Sinayoko

Nigeria predicted lineup

Nwabali; Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Aina; Onyeka, Iwobi, Sanusi, Chukuweze; Lookman, Dessers

Match prediction for Mali vs Nigeria

Mali and Nigeria are both strong footballing nations with talented players. Matches between them are often closely contested. Nigeria traditionally have a strong team with a rich footballing history, while Mali have been improving steadily in recent years, boasting some talented players.

Prediction: Mali 1-2 Nigeria

Telecast

India – FanCode

UK – N/A

US – N/A

Nigeria – Afrosport

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