This is not Ghana of 6 years ago - Niger coach fancies chances against Black Stars

Head Coach of the Niger national team, Ezzaki Badou believes Ghana are not as strong as they used to be after being paired in the same group with the Black Stars in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Badou’s side will face Ghana, Sudan and Angola in Group F of the qualifiers, which will kick off in September.

While the Black Stars are favourites to top the group, the Moroccan tactician is of the view that Niger have a very good chance of also qualifying.

He described the group as “affordable” while insisting that Ghana are not as strong as they used to be and are even beatable at home.

“We’re in an affordable group. We have every chance of qualifying,” Badou said in an interview with CAF Online.

“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.”

Zaki, 64, is no stranger to inspiring African national sides, having previously led his native Morocco to the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations final during a distinguished coaching career.

He cently coached the Sudan national team.

The highly-rated tactician has also been handed a remit to completely reshape Niger's failing football infrastructure in his role with the Nigerien Football Federation (FENIFOOT).

Only the top two teams of each group will book their places at the 2025 AFCON.