Ghana can even lose at home – Niger coach reacts to AFCON qualification draw

Niger coach Badou Zaki has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) despite being drawn in a challenging group with Ghana, Angola, and Sudan.

The Nigeriens who are aiming to make it to their third AFCON face a daunting task against these opponents.

Reacting to the draw in an interview with CAFonline.com, Zaki assessed the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents.

“We’re in an affordable group. We have every chance of qualifying.”

While acknowledging Ghana’s football prowess, the Moroccan legend believes that the Black Stars are not as formidable as they once were.

“Ghana is a football country with great professionals… but it’s not the team of five or six years ago. Even at home, they can lose.”

Niger will face Sudan and Ghana in their first two qualifying matches in September 2024. Zaki’s confidence in his team’s abilities is evident, as he aims to guide the Mena to their first AFCON qualification in a decade.

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Niger previously made back-to-back appearances in the 2012 and 2013 editions in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, and South Africa, respectively.

Despite the challenges ahead, Zaki’s positive mindset and strategic preparation suggest that Niger is poised to make a strong impact in the qualifiers.

Interestingly Ghana will face Sudan which is now coached by former coach Kwesi Appiah adding an extra layer of intrigue to Group F as the Black Stars aim for a 25th appearance on the continental stage.