Bob Mafoso backs Lesotho to defy ranking against Niger

Mafoso has inherited a Likuena side that predecessor Leslie Notsi left ranked 147th in the world and 44th in Africa, meaning Niger enter the contest with the statistical advantage on paper.

The match will be played in Accra due to the unavailability of a FIFA-approved venue in Lesotho and despite the ranking disparity and unfamiliar surroundings, Mafoso insists his players are ready to compete and prove their credentials when they take the field.

"We know quite a bit about the Niger National Team because everything is not hidden in today's world. We are aware that they are ranked above us, but that just makes it an interesting game."

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Lesotho are in a group completed by powerhouses Morocco and Gabon, which means Mafoso has his work cut out. 

Captain Sekhoane Moerane echoed the words of his coach that Lesotho were determined to get their qualification off to an ideal start knowing how tough it will get when they face Morocco and Gabon, who are even stronger. 

"We are very well prepared and we came here to collect maximum points. We respect them but we don't fear them so we will be fighting for that victory because every nation wants to qualify."