Doula defends Niger’s cautious approach despite Guinea loss
Niger coach Harouna Doula Gabde remained positive despite a 1-0 defeat to Guinea in their opening match of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, choosing to highlight his side's defensive resilience over their clear attacking shortcomings.
“It’s true we lost this match, but there are positives to take,” Doula said after the match.
“We were solid defensively; Guinea didn’t trouble us that much. We had a few chances that we couldn’t convert.”
Cautious tactics, limited punch
Coming off a historic semi-final run in the last edition of CHAN in 2022, Niger entered this year’s tournament with high expectations — but Doula adopted a noticeably cautious tactical set-up.
His team focused on defensive organisation and building from the back, even though technical limitations made fluid ball progression difficult.
Niger maintained a high defensive line designed to disrupt Guinea’s midfield rhythm. At times, the approach succeeded, limiting Guinea to few clear-cut chances.
However, the lack of compactness in the final third and slow transition from defence to attack undermined the overall game plan.
Second-half surge fizzles out
In the second half, Niger sought to raise their intensity and pressed higher up the pitch.
Brief spells of territorial control gave the Menas hope, but the side struggled with poor link-up play, ineffective ball circulation, and disjointed movement between the lines.
Even during their best moments, the final pass and finishing touch eluded them — a problem Doula acknowledged must be addressed before their next Group C fixture.
Room for improvement ahead
For a team once lauded for its defensive discipline and surprising 2022 run, the performance served as a reminder of the work that lies ahead if Niger are to challenge for honours in this edition of CHAN.
Doula's men must now regroup quickly. While the backline showed signs of organisation, the disconnect between midfield and attack remains a glaring issue.
The team’s approach may need recalibration if they are to earn points in upcoming matches.
Looking forward
Despite the loss, the coach remains focused on what lies ahead. “This is only the first match,” Doula insisted.
“There’s still time to correct things and build on the good parts of our game. I believe in this team.”
As Niger prepares for their next group game, the balance between defensive solidity and attacking ambition will be key.
With the memory of their semi-final heroics still fresh, expectations are high—but improvement must come quickly if they are to stay in contention.
