Niger's national football team made a winning start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, beating Lesotho 2-1 in their opening Group A match. The match took place on Friday, 25 September 2026. Daniel Sosah and Oumar Sako scored crucial goals in the first half to put Niger in control. Their efforts paid off as Nabil Neghiz's side secured all three points. This win is significant for Niger as they compete in a group that also includes Morocco and Gabon.
The match began with Niger making a more purposeful start, gradually establishing themselves in Lesotho's half as they searched for an opening. Their pressure eventually paid off in the 38th minute when Ousseni Badamassi created the opportunity for Sosah, who finished to give Niger a 1-0 lead. Lesotho attempted to respond after falling behind but struggled to seriously trouble the Niger defence before half-time. This set the stage for Niger's second goal just before the interval.
Niger struck again in the 45th minute, with Amadou Wonkoye providing the pass for Sako, who scored to double the advantage. This goal sent Niger into the break firmly in control, leaving Lesotho with a considerable task after the restart. Lesotho made changes at half-time, introducing Teboho Letsema and Tsepang Sefali, in an attempt to find a route back into the contest.
The substitutions helped Lesotho become more adventurous as Niger were increasingly forced to defend their advantage. Further changes followed as the second half progressed, with Thabang Malane replacing Mohlomi Makhetha on the hour. Lesotho's improved performance was finally rewarded in the 85th minute when they were awarded a penalty. Sera Motebang converted from the spot to reduce the deficit to 2-1 and set up a tense finish.
Lesotho pushed forward in search of an equaliser, while Niger concentrated on protecting the lead that their first-half performance had given them. The tense finish was a result of Lesotho's efforts to level the score, but Niger's defence held strong. In the end, Niger managed the closing stages and survived the late pressure to ensure they opened their campaign with maximum points.
This victory could prove valuable in a potentially demanding Group A, with Morocco and Gabon completing the four-team section. Niger's next qualifier will be away to Gabon on 29 September, while Lesotho will host Morocco on the same day. The outcome of these matches will further shape the standings in Group A.
The win demonstrates Niger's determination to advance in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. With a strong start, they aim to build momentum in the competition. The team's performance will be closely watched in their upcoming matches against top opponents in Group A.
Key points
- Niger won their opening Group A match against Lesotho with a 2-1 score.
- The match was part of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
- Niger's next qualifier is against Gabon on 29 September.
