Home National Football Teams NFF Announces Super Eagles’ International Friendlies Against Ghana, Mali in Morocco

NFF Announces Super Eagles’ International Friendlies Against Ghana, Mali in Morocco

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has revealed that the Super Eagles will engage in two high-profile friendly matches against Ghana’s Black Stars and Mali’s Les Aigles in Marrakech, Morocco, later this month.

These matches, organized by NFF’s FIFA Match Agent, Jairo Pachon of Eurodata Sport, are set to reignite historic rivalries and provide valuable preparation ahead of future competitions.

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The clash with Ghana’s Black Stars, scheduled for Friday, March 22nd, promises to evoke memories of a longstanding rivalry between the two West African giants, dating back to 1951.

Recent encounters between Nigeria and Ghana, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup play-offs, have been fiercely contested, underlining the intensity of this fixture.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s showdown with Mali, dubbed the “Eagles Derby,” will take place on Tuesday, March 26th, at the same venue.

Although both teams last met in a friendly match in 2016, their history dates back to previous Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, adding further intrigue to the encounter.

The Super Eagles, led by head coach Paul Aigbogun, have called up a strong squad for the friendlies, featuring a blend of experienced players and emerging talents.

Notable inclusions are the return of midfielder Wilfred Ndidi from injury and the inclusion of new faces such as defender Gabriel Osho and midfielder Benjamin Tianimu.

The invited players, including goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, and Ojo Olorunleke, along with defenders Chidozie Awaziem, Tyronne Ebuehi, and Bruno Onyemaechi, are expected to showcase their talent and stake their claim for a permanent spot in the team.

In midfield, the likes of Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, and Alex Iwobi will provide stability and creativity, while the attacking department boasts firepower with the inclusion of Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Sadiq Umar.

With these friendlies serving as crucial preparation for future competitions, including the upcoming African Games and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the Super Eagles are determined to make a statement against their regional rivals and demonstrate their readiness for the challenges ahead.