Niger has talent and ambition to make an impact at CHAN – Harouna
- Dennis Kegengo
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Niger national team coach Doula Harouna is beaming with confidence that they have talent and ambition to make an impact ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to be staged across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from August 2 to 30.
During the last edition of CHAN held in Algeria, Niger, who have been drawn in Group C alongside hosts Uganda, tournament regulars Algeria, Guinea, and South Africa, reached the semi-finals.
Harouna now believes they have what it takes to go all the way and reach the final of the tournament. “Of course, the people of Niger expect more this time. After a semi-final, the dream of winning the trophy becomes legitimate,” said Harouna as quoted by CAFOnline.
“However, our preparation time has been shorter compared to previous campaigns, which worries me. In the past, we were better organised and had ample time to prepare for such tournaments. Despite the challenges, we aim to progress beyond the group stage and go as far as possible.”
He added: “Describing it as a dream squad might be an exaggeration, but I believe we’ve assembled the best team we could. We’ve made changes, letting go of some players from the qualification phase whose performances weren’t optimal and adding new ones.
“The team is still evolving as we continue preparation matches. By the start of the tournament, I hope we’ll have reached an optimal level to compete effectively.”
He concluded: “We are in preparation, but we haven’t had as much time as in previous editions. In the last two campaigns, we prepared practically all year, but this time it has been different. Despite that, we have significant ambitions with this team.
“Our squad has become younger and is filled with new, talented players. From my point of view, this is a team of the future. These young players have the potential to show their worth, meet expectations, and possibly attract interest from bigger African clubs or even in Europe.
“I wish them nothing but success, and I encourage them to stay focused on our objectives: to perform well and make the most of this opportunity.”
Niger will kick-off their campaign against Guinea at Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, on August 4.
