Niger's coach, Badou Zaki, has shared his optimism about his team's prospects in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, where they will face Ghana, Angola, and Sudan in Group F.
In an interview with CAFOnline following the draw, Zaki assessed the strengths and weaknesses of their group opponents. He acknowledged Ghana's historical status as a football powerhouse with a team of skilled professionals but noted that the current squad is not as dominant as in previous years.
"We are in an affordable group. We have every chance of qualifying. For me, Ghana is a football country with a selection of great professionals. But it is not the team of 5 or 6 years ago," Zaki stated.
He also commended Angola for their recent performances, describing their football as modern and fast-paced, which has allowed them to challenge top teams effectively.
"Angola showed a good face during the last CAN and played beautiful, modern, fast football. It is a selection that has shaken up the big teams in Côte d'Ivoire," Zaki said.
Regarding Sudan, Zaki highlighted their impressive position at the top of their World Cup qualifying group, recognizing them as a significant threat in the qualifiers.
"I know Sudan very well. They are first in their qualifying group for the World Cup. They will be dangerous, but we know our strengths and we know that we can go far," he added.
Niger’s qualification campaign begins in September 2024 with matches against Sudan and Ghana as they aim for a spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament.
