Niger satisfied despite World Cup failure

The Menas rather look upbeat despite failing to progress to the final round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Niger captain Soulemane Sakou has praised his team for their efforts against Cameroon despite losing three nil on aggregate and failing to progress to the final round of the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Niger held Cameroon to a goalless draw in Yaounde

Niger lost three nil at home to Cameroon in the first leg but put up a spirited display in the second leg as they pulled out of Yaounde with a goalless draw.

Sakou believes the draw is a satisfactory result and paid respect to the Indomitable Lions whom he feels were superior to them.

Moussa Maazou(number 2) outjumps Chedjou to threaten Kameni with a powerful header

''It's emotional(to play against Cameroon) because we are only used to seeing them play on TV...they(Cameroon) are used to top level football,'' Sakou said on his admiration for Cameroon.

Bowing out with pride:Sakou satisfied with draw against Cameroon

''It's a psychological satisfaction to play against these players whom who are used to Africa Cup of Nations and World Cups

''It's is a great honour for us and we are very satisfied(after this game),'' Sakou said.

The Niger bench watches on

On his part, assistant head coach Cheick Diabaté said his players could be proud of themselves after keeping a clean sheet in Yaounde and looks towards a brighter future with the team

''It is always satisfactory when you don't concede(as we did today)... I am not interested by the scoreline (0-3 aggregate) but I want to judge our level of play 

Niger assistant looking to build on from Cameroon game

''We are building a team for the future.. and we hope that in three years we will bring the best out of these players and be at the same level with the other teams.

Niger now turn their attention to the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers which resume next year.