Niger will look to make history as they set up in a thrilling Group B clash against Mali at the ongoing TotalEnergy CAF U23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 on Saturday evening.Having secured a pivotal 1-0 win over Gabon in the last week courtesy of Abdoul Moumouni, Niger – who haven’t conceded yet this tournament, will look to make it through to the knock-outs for the first time as they hold second position with 4 points in the group.##NAJAVA_MECA_7347256##At the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Niger coach Zakariaou Ibrahim Yahaya has urged his side to approach the game with utmost seriousness in a match that could also see Mali go through with a win.”We understand that we are creating a remarkable chapter in Nigerien football,” he said. “Many of our fellow countrymen are closely following us through social media, and we have received an abundance of supportive messages. The players are fueled by the nation’s encouragement.”📹 HIGHLIGHTS: 🇬🇦 0-1 🇳🇪 Niger write history with their first ever U-23 AFCON win against Gabon 👏#TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 | @Football2Gether | #GABNIG pic.twitter.com/ZpTeDWHZik— #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 🏆 (@CAF_Online) June 29, 2023 Mali, on the other side, will seek to rebound from their last loss to Egypt – who will play a dead rubber fixture against Gabon in Tangier.Pharaohs head coach Mario Rogerio acknowledges the importance of the game, with his highest point being to clinch top spot in the group.Aaaand it’s a wrap for #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 Group A 😮💨Take a look at the final standings 👇 pic.twitter.com/huNrZRIpi8— #TotalEnergiesAFCONU23 🏆 (@CAF_Online) July 1, 2023 “Our focus is on winning to claim the group’s summit. Hence, this match holds tremendous importance for us, and the players are fully aware of its significance,” the defending champions gaffer commented. Elsewhere on Friday, Morocco and Guinea secured their semi final slots after nicking victories in their last Group A clashes.Guinea drew 1-1 with Ghana, with Morocco securing a 1-0 victory over Congo to finish top of the group with nine points.
