Super Eagles Update: Finidi George hints at Nigeria changes for Mali clash

Interim Super Eagles manager Finidi George has suggested he will ring the changes when Nigeria faces Mali in an international friendly on Tuesday night in Morocco.

The three-time African champions beat Ghana 2-1 in their previous warm-up match last Friday thanks to goals from Cyriel Dessers and Ademola Lookman.

However, Finidi, who took over from Jose Peseiro after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, says he cannot overwork his squad ahead of a busy schedule.

"Definitely (you will see changes to the team that played Ghana)," the former Ajax and Real Betis winger said per a video from the team's account on Twitter.

"We can't overload the players, some will come in definitely (against Mali) and we'll see the areas where they can come in."

The friendly in Morocco provides an opportunity for Finidi to have a look at some of the fringe members of his squad before Nigeria begins qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations later this year.

Finidi has been handed the reins on an interim basis while the Nigerian Football Federation searches for a permanent replacement for Peseiro.

His tenure began positively with a victory over bitter rivals Ghana, and further squad rotation against Mali could allow him to assess the depth of talent at his disposal.

After finishing as runners-up to Cote d’Ivoire at AFCON 2023, expectations will be high for the Super Eagles to push for a fourth continental title next year while also qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after missing the 2022 party in Qatar..