Consolation prize

Nigeria beats Mali for bronze at African Nations Cup

MOPTI, Mali (Reuters) -- Nigeria sealed a consolation third place at the African Nations Cup on Saturday, defeating host Mali 1-0 in Mopti to take the tournament's bronze medals.

Israeli-based striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni scored the only goal just after the half hour, running on to a through ball from Tijani Babangida to seal Nigeria's victory.

But the World Cup finalist had to withstand a furious late onslaught from Mali, which had three good opportunities in the last seven minutes but contrived to squander them all.

Nigeria fielded a second-string side, but brought on English-based strikers Nwankwo Kanu and Finidi George near the end.

Victor Ikpeba wasted a great chance to double the lead in the second half when he completely missed a clever cross laid back into his path by Babangida, and he miscued again late in the game with the goal at his mercy from a tight angle.

Mali goalkeeper Mahamadou Sidibe had to be taken to hospital after being hurt in a clash with Aiyegbeni early in the game.

He was replaced by Karamoko Keita, who plays his club football for English non-league side Harrow Borough.

The third-place finish for Nigeria followed the disappointment of being runner-up two years ago when it hosted the tournament.

Defending champion Cameroon plays Senegal in Sunday's final in Bamako.

 

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