George Finidi, interim head coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, has reiterated his aim of securing wins in both matches during March’s international window as his team prepares to face Les Aigles of Mali in Marrakech, Morocco, on Tuesday.
The West African rivals will clash under the lights at the Grand Stade de Marrakech following Nigeria’s recent 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Ghana on Friday.
However, Finidi will have to navigate the match without the services of defender Calvin Bassey and midfielder Frank Onyeka, both sidelined due to injuries.
In addition to Bassey and Onyeka, Nigeria will miss the presence of forwards Victor Osimhen, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Victor Boniface, as well as defenders William Ekong, Olaoluwa Aina, Zaidu Sanusi, Gabriel Osho, and Tyronne Ebuehi, all sidelined due to injuries.
Despite the setbacks, the former Ajax Amsterdam and Real Betis winger remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances, emphasising the team’s determination to secure victory in both matches.
“We cannot at this time be dwelling on the injuries and absences that we have to cope with. Our intention has always been to win these two matches and then look forward to the World Cup qualifiers in June,” said Finidi
He added, “We are determined to keep up the momentum and sustain the winning mentality derived from beating the Black Stars.”
Interestingly, Finidi’s last appearance for Nigeria was against Mali, where the Super Eagles secured a 1-0 victory to clinch bronze in the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Mali. Mali, who displayed readiness with a 2-0 win over Mauritania in Morocco on Friday, presents a formidable challenge for Nigeria.
Goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo, defenders Kenneth Omeruo and Jamilu Collins, midfielder Alhassan Yusuf, and forwards Nathan Tella, Sadiq Umar, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru are expected to feature prominently in the encounter against Les Aigles.