AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Niger hold off Lesotho to claim crucial three points in Group A

Niger made a winning start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Lesotho at Stade Pere-Jego.

Daniel Sosah and Oumar Sako scored either side of half-time to put Niger in control of the Group A encounter before Sera Motebang pulled one back from the penalty spot late on.

Niger take control before half-time

Niger broke the deadlock in the 38th minute when Daniel Sosah finished to give the hosts the lead.

Ousseini Badamassi provided the assist as Niger took advantage of their opportunity to move ahead.

They doubled their advantage just before the break, with Oumar Sako finding the net in the 45th minute.

Amadou Wonkoye supplied the assist as Niger went into half-time with a 2-0 lead.

Lesotho respond late

Lesotho reduced the deficit five minutes from full time when Sera Motebang converted from the penalty spot in the 85th minute.

The goal gave Lesotho hope of rescuing a point, but Niger held on to claim all three points from their opening Group A fixture.

Niger face Gabon next

Niger will now turn their attention to their second Group A match against Gabon.

Lesotho, meanwhile, face another difficult assignment when they take on Morocco in their next qualifying fixture.