Niger v DRC - A duel with no expectations

The Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé will be the scene on Monday 25 January 2021, when Niger faces DR Congo in Group B Matchday 3 of the ongoing Total African Nations Championship, Cameroon 2021.

A draw will be enough for DR Congo to continue their dream of a third star on their local Leopards jersey, while Niger need victory to go through without waiting the result of Libya and Congo match, with a simultaneous kickoff at Japoma Stadium in Douala.

DR Congo tops the group on four points, two more than Niger and Libya, while Congo has a lone point before the final group matchday. This means that the probabilities are numerous and Each of the four teams can still claim qualification to the quarterfinals.

Niger have not won any of their last 6 CHAN matches, a fact they need to overturn on Monday if they are to reach the quarterfinals for the second time in their history after 2011.

“To reach the quarterfinals we have to beat DR Congo,” Niger coach Harouna doula said. “We believe in our chances. We have to play a big game on Monday, and the players must rise to the challenge. We must go and get this qualification ticket,” he added.

On the other side, DR Congo are going to the game without their coach Florent Ibenge for the second time. Because of COVID-19, Ibenge had to give way his assistant Pamphile Miyaho.

The two-time champions (only team to achieve this feat) are looking for a fifth knockout stages qualification in five participations.

“The players had a good game against Libya and will certainly do the same this Monday against Niger,” Mihayo said. “Despite losing some key players and also our coach, we will play our way. (Coach) Ibenge regularly follows training sessions and is in constant contact with us to give us his instructions and recommendations.

“Against Niger, we will play hard to ensure our qualification”, concluded Mihayo.

This is the first game between Niger and DR Congo in CHAN history.