6th May, 2011
Ibrahim Tenne, a member of the Niger Republic, plays for ES Police Football Club in the Nigerien league. He was among the players that denied Nigeria a place in the last Nations Cup held in Sudan for home-based players. He spoke with SUNDAY AKINTOYE about his team and the ongoing WAFU Nations Cup
How would you rate Niger Republic in this year’s WAFU Cup?
We are in Nigeria to shock the big countries like Nigeria and Ghana. We defeated Nigeria during last year’s Africa Nations Cup qualifiers for home-based teams, so we can do it again.
What gives you the confidence that Niger Republic can beat Nigeria again?
Niger Republic are a good side and full of young players, who are hungry for success. I don’t think we are afraid of Nigeria.
Which countries do you think will give your team problem in the competition?
I think Ghana is a difficult team. They play better than Nigeria. I will prefer to play Nigeria in the group stage than Ghana.
How would you rate football in Niger Republic?
Well, football is coming up in our country. If we can stop Nigeria from playing in last year’s Africa Nation Cup for home-based teams, this is to tell you that Niger Republic is coming up to catch up with big countries in Africa.
Where do you see your country in the WAFU Cup?
We are here in Abeokuta to win the tournament, of course (laughs) it is possible if we can commit ourselves to this tournament.