The anticipation mounts as Niger and Tanzania gear up for the commencement of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in a compelling clash set to unfold at Stade de Marrakech on Saturday.
Match Preview
While neither nation stands as the frontrunner to top Group E, a positive outcome for either side in this encounter could set an intriguing tone for their journey ahead.
Jean-Michel Cavalli aims to steer Niger away from a four-game losing streak in competitive fixtures as they initiate their World Cup qualifying pursuit this weekend.
After securing two draws initially, the Nigeriens stumbled, concluding their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with four consecutive losses, including a 1-1 draw against Tanzania in June 2022.
This unfortunate streak placed Cavalli’s squad at the bottom of the group, a position they strive to avoid in the World Cup qualifiers.
Despite their challenging position, Cavalli relies on his team’s resilience, notably evident in three of their recent losses being one-goal defeats, with the exception being a 2-0 setback against Uganda in the final round of the AFCON qualifiers in September.
Niger’s recent 3-0 triumph over Somalia offers a glimmer of hope, potentially boosting their morale ahead of Saturday’s fixture.
Tanzania, however, presents a formidable challenge. The Taifa Stars, under Adel Amrouche, seek to capitalize on the neutral ground advantage in Morocco.
Struggling in scoring during the AFCON qualifiers, Tanzania’s defensive prowess secured their qualification, notably through a goalless draw against Algeria, eliminating Uganda.
While their defensive strategy served them well in the AFCON, replicating it in the World Cup qualifiers might prove insufficient since only the top-ranked team secures direct qualification.
Ending among the top four runners-up could be Tanzania’s objective, albeit a precarious pathway considering the absence of star-quality players.
The team must display ambition and determination in Group E, recognizing the rarity of their opportunity to clinch a spot in the World Cup, having never participated before.
Niger’s recent form in all competitions displays a sequence of losses followed by a lone victory and two draws, whereas Tanzania exhibits a mixed pattern of wins, losses, and draws.
Team News:
Niger faces a challenge with Daniel Sosah’s absence due to injury despite his pivotal role in AFCON qualifying.
This forces Menas into a reshuffle in the forward position. Cavalli is expected to employ a five-player backline against Tanzania after a successful friendly with a back four against Somalia.
For Tanzania, the former Aston Villa striker Mbwana Samatta might lead the attack in their quest for a promising start to World Cup qualifying.
Simon Msuva, instrumental in AFCON qualifying, remains a crucial forward for the Taifa Stars.
Predicted Lineups:
Niger:(5-4-1)
Djibo;
Yakubu, Doudou, Diabate, Katkore, Alhassane;
Wonkoye, Oumarou, Magid, Mohamed;
Hainikoye
Tanzania:(4-3-3)
Kakolanya;
Job, Mnoga, Banda, Miroshi;
Yasin, Mikami, Yahya;
Msuva, Samatta, Kibu
Prediction: Niger 0-1 Tanzania
While Saturday’s game may result in a draw, Tanzania’s superior quality positions them to potentially secure a narrow victory against Niger.
