Niger Republic began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Lesotho in Group A on Friday.
Niger took control of the encounter in the 38th minute when Daniel Sosah broke the deadlock to give his side the lead.
Oumar Sako doubled Niger’s advantage just before the interval, scoring in the 45th minute to put the hosts two goals ahead at the break.
Lesotho reduced the deficit five minutes from full time after Sera Motebang converted from the penalty spot in the 85th minute.
However, Niger held on to claim all three points and move to the top of Group A after the opening round of matches.
The result leaves Lesotho, Morocco and Gabon without a point, with Morocco and Gabon scheduled to face each other later on Friday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
