After securing an unexpected third-place finish at the 2022 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Algeria, Niger returns to the tournament with a renewed sense of belief and a clear objective: to reach the final for the first time in the nation’s history.
The Mena A’, led once again by the experienced Harouna Doula, will enter the 2024 edition with the conviction that their previous success was no fluke.
The semi-final run two years ago, which included a statement 1-0 win over Cameroon, is now seen not as a miracle, but as the result of tactical discipline, a cohesive squad, and years of developmental groundwork.
Now preparing to face Algeria’s A’ team in the final group stage clash, Niger arrives in Uganda determined to raise the bar.
The side’s approach under Doula remains pragmatic, but the ambition has grown. “We are not just here to repeat the past. We are here to go further,” has become the prevailing message from within the camp.
The road to qualification for CHAN 2024 was not without its challenges. Facing Togo in the final qualifying round, Niger displayed defensive resilience rather than attacking flair.
A 1-1 draw away from home, followed by a goalless stalemate in Niamey, was enough to see them through on the away goals rule.
It wasn’t dazzling, but it demonstrated the team’s composure under pressure—one of their defining traits.
At the core of Niger’s strength lies a group that blends youth with experience. Left-back Abraham Agora, just 22 years old and a standout for Union Sportive de la Gendarmerie Nationale, has grown into a pivotal figure in the squad.
Known for his tenacity in duels and his accuracy on set-pieces, Agora brings versatility and confidence to both the defensive line and attacking build-up.
In central defence, Medo has emerged as a commanding presence. Towering in aerial contests and assured with the ball, the centre-back has shown maturity beyond his years, notably during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. His performances have attracted attention, and CHAN 2024 offers him a bigger stage to impress.
But perhaps no figure is more central to Nigerien football than Harouna Doula. The coach who led Niger to their maiden AFCON appearance in 2012 and oversaw their CHAN debut in 2011 remains the driving force behind the team’s steady rise.
A tactician who favours the 4-4-2 system but adapts when needed, Doula’s emphasis on organisation and teamwork has made the Mena a formidable opponent.
Niger’s approach may not be built on flair, but it is effective. The team capitalises on opponents’ errors and knows how to weather difficult phases of a match.
With a disciplined backline and a growing pool of dynamic young players, Niger has proven it can stand toe-to-toe with stronger sides.
As they aim to return to the semi-finals and take that final step toward the title match, the players carry with them the momentum of past achievements and the clarity of a team that knows its identity.
This edition of CHAN may yet witness the most significant chapter in Niger’s football history.
