Before the match in the Ghanaian capital of Accra, Mali had stood a better chance than Nigeria to gain a position in the quarter-finals thanks to its draw with the Super Eagles. It needed just one point while Nigeria would have to face a "must-win" match.

    Chelsea striker Didier Drogba put an end to the sedentary rhythm in the ninth minute by curling a pass from Barcelona midfielder Yaya Toure and netting for The Elephants. With renewed efforts in the second half, Marc Zoro used a corner and brought another goal with a header. Cote d'Ivoire substitute Boubacar Sanogo scored with a close-range shot with five minutes left.