The interim head coach of the Super Eagles, Finidi George, has admitted the team was punished for “a few mistakes” they made against Mali.
Nigeria were beaten 2-0 by Eric Chelle’s side in an international friendly on Tuesday night.
El Bilal Toure and Kamorou Dounmbia scored the goals for the Malians.
Finidi, who won his first game in charge against Ghana, told reporters: “I think it was just a few mistakes that cost us the match.
“It was not a bad game. Good intensity, we created a couple of chances, but didn’t score.
“And in a game like this, if you don’t score and you make mistakes, you will be punished.
“I’m happy with the way the boys played and it is quite positive.”
You will be punished – Finidi George on why Super Eagles lost 2-0 to Mali