2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Niger coach Badou Zaki takes a swipe at 'weak' Black Stars

Niger head coach Badou Zaki is optimistic about his team's chances in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualifiers, despite being drawn in a tough Group F alongside Ghana, Angola, and Sudan.

In an interview with CAFONLINE.COM, Zaki assessed 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're not as strong 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 after back-to-back appearances in the 2012 and 2013 editions in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon and in South Africa.