Niger head coach Badou Zaki is optimistic about his team’s prospects in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, despite being placed in a challenging Group F alongside Ghana, Angola, and Sudan.

In an interview with CAFONLINE.COM, Zaki evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents, stating, “We’re in an affordable group. We have every chance of qualifying.”

The Moroccan legend acknowledged Ghana’s football prowess but believes they are not as formidable as they once were: “Ghana is a football country with great professionals… but it’s not the team of 5 or 6 years ago. Even at home, they can lose.”

Niger will face Sudan and Ghana in their first two qualifying matches in September 2024. Despite the challenges ahead, Zaki’s confidence in his team’s abilities is evident.

With a positive mindset and strategic preparation, Niger aims to make a strong impact in the qualifiers. The Mena are seeking their first qualification to the Africa Cup of Nations in a decade, following back-to-back appearances in the 2012 and 2013 editions in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, and in South Africa.