Mali and Nigeria draw

Essipon (W/R) Jan. 25, GNA - Mali on Friday held the Super Eagles of Nigeria to a goalless drawn game in their second "Group B" match of the African Cup of Nations tournament at the Sekondi stadium at Essipon. Nigeria was heavily tipped to win this crucial encounter by many sports analysts but the Malians proved their worth and matched their more fancied opponents boot for boot.

Nigeria put the ball into the Malian net in the 37th minute but it was ruled offside.

The game started on a bright note with both teams demonstrating skills and talent but Mali dominated the entire play. Both teams lost many begging chances to the displeasure of their fans and spectators.

The inclusion of Ikechechu Uche, Stephen Makinwa and Paul Utaka as substitutes did not translate into goals for Nigeria.

Nigeria in the 16th minute missed a golden opportunity that would have won them the day. As the Eagles wasted many scoring opportunities some of their supporters turned against them and cheered the Malians. The Malian team played a very determined and consistent game laced with inter-positional changes and speed.

The Malian Goalkeeper Mahamadou Sidibe's sterling performances thwarted all the efforts of the Super Eagles. Frederick Kanoute, a Malian striker, was voted man of the match while the fair play award went to Daniel Shiitu of Nigeria.