Emenike: Nigeria won't underestimate Mali after knocking out Cote d'Ivoire

04/02/2013 7:55:00 PM

The Super Eagles striker is confident that his side can reach the Africa Cup of Nations final, but urged his team-mates to show their last-four opponents the respect they deserve

EXCLUSIVE
By Ernest Makhaya

Emmanuel Emenike has warned Nigeria that underestimating Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final could well prove costly.

The Super Eagles ousted pre-tournament favourites Cote d'Ivoire to reach the last four on Sunday, but the Spartak Moscow striker feels his team-mates must still be on their guard.

“We beat the team that everyone was talking about and I think we will make it to the final this year,” he told Goal.com.

“We will be making a big mistake if we take Mali for granted. We need to give them the respect that they deserve, because they fought hard to reach the semi-finals.

“I want to score as many goals as possible to help Nigeria win the trophy. Getting a top-scorer award will be a bonus because I am representing Nigeria and not myself."

Nigeria and Mali face one another in Durban on Wednesday.

Inside Goal.Com

BVB's rise from the abyss to European contenders
BVB have recovered from teetering on the edge of bankruptcy to take their place on Europe's grandest stage, humbling their opponents on Saturday, Bayern Munich, along the way
The top-30 EAFF clubs: Sanfrecce Hiroshima
Goal Asia will list its top-30 EAFF clubs, featuring the heavyweights of Japan, China, Australia, South Korea and Hong Kong. This time, it is Sanfrecce Hiroshima who are the focus
Transfer Talk: Mourinho wants six new signings
Get your daily dose of all the speculation from around the globe as clubs cast their eye towards summer reinforcements
In Off the Post Podcast: Merrick makes return
The team from Goal Australia and Sportal take you through all the big news in football, including Ernie Merrick's A-League return and the forthcoming Champions League final
Who is the greatest Champions League striker ever?
Enter our competition now and you will be in with a chance of winning one of four replica football shirts. Simply pick your favourite and subscribe to our YouTube channel