January 29, (THEWILL) – Niger made history on Saturday, by defeating Ghana 2-0 in the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-finals.
The Menas secured their spot in the semi-finals for the first time in their fourth participation in the tournament. The match, held at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran, Algeria, was decided by an own goal from Konadu Yiadom and a stunning strike from Soumana Hainikoye Boubacar.
Niger’s defence was impenetrable, as they have gone three games without conceding a goal. The Black Galaxies of Ghana had control of ball possession but struggled to break through the Menas’ defence. Goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim was kept busy throughout the match as Niger’s Abdoul Aziz Ibrahim, Imarana Dan Baro, and Faycal Abdoulaye, tested him on several occasions.
Despite Ghana’s efforts to mount a comeback, Niger’s defence remained resolute. Substitutions for the Black Galaxies brought in more offensive options, but Niger’s full-back, Adamou Djibo, was able to repel threats on the Niger goal. Kwame Otu thought he had scored for Ghana in the 65th minute, but his goal was ruled out after a foul in the build-up.
With the win, Niger will face hosts Algeria in the semi-final of the CHAN 2022 on Tuesday, in Oran, at 5pm Nigerian time.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
