The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations semi final clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Eagles of Mali has elicited a lot of interest among Nigerian football fraternity.

Peter Rufai

Former Super Eagles captain and first choice goalkeeper, Peter Rufai is not perturbed about the Malian threat as he declared that the Super Eagles would triumph at the end of the encounter. “Mali can’t stand Nigeria,” Rufai said repeatedly, but insisted, he was not underrating the Mali Eagles.

“The Super Eagles impressed me in their match against Ivory Coast, particularly, the technical depth and fighting spirit was unequaled.

“They neutralised the Ivorians and made them immobile. If they maintain that approach, Mali cannot stop them. “With that victory over Ivory Coast, there is no doubt it is going to boost the players’ morale.

I know Mali are no pushovers in African football but with the form our players are at the moment, it will be difficult for Mali to beat us.”