Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has announced two high-profile international friendlies for the Super Eagles against Ghana’s Black Stars and Mali’s Les Aigles, Soccernet.ng reports.
Earlier, there were reports that the Super Eagles of Nigeria were slated to tackle Argentina, and EL Salvador in the United States of America, but this will not hold due to logistic issue.
Meanwhile, the clashes which reignite age-old rivalries with Ghana and Mali is set to take place in Marrakech, Morocco on Friday, March 22nd, and Tuesday, March 26th.
The encounter with Ghana’s Black Stars holds particular significance, harking back to a 73-year rivalry between the West African giants. The last meeting between the two teams in March 2022, during a FIFA World Cup play-off, ended in a closely contested draw.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s encounter with Mali presents an intriguing matchup between two teams aptly dubbed the ‘Eagles’. While their previous friendly in 2016 ended in a deadlock, Mali seeks to avenge their loss to the Super Eagles in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals.
The Nigerian squad, boasting a blend of experience and fresh talent, includes notable names such as Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen, and Alex Iwobi.
Two games this March for our @NGSuperEagles in Marrakech #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/bQsWcakX0o
— The NFF 🇳🇬 (@thenff) March 9, 2024
Additionally, the return of key players like Jamilu Collins and Tyronne Ebuehi, alongside promising newcomers Gabriel Osho and Benjamin Tianimu, adds depth to the lineup.
All eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they aim to showcase their prowess on the international stage once again after their lost to Cote d’Ivoire in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
N.B: Do you think Nigeria can defeat Ghana and Mali in their upcoming friendly clash? Leave your comments below.
