FT Somalia 0-2 Niger

Somalia put up a spirited fight in the first half of the FIFA World Cup qualifier but crumbled in the second half under a more experienced Niger, conceding twice in the later minutes of the match.

The match was played in Ethiopia on Friday 9, due to security concerns in the war ravaged Horn of Africa country.

Moussa Mazzou who constantly tested Somalia keeper Mustapha Hussein finally got his breakthrough in the 58th minute after rounding up the keeper to fire in the opener – he was at it again three minutes later from the spot to double the lead.

Coach James Magala responded by making a double sub bringing into play Abdiqani Bulle for Dadir Amin Ali and Bule Burale for Ahmed Shegow, with minimal results, as the visitors piled more pressure on them.

Bule should have pulled one back for the home side deep into the game but his shot was cleared off the line with the Niger keeper well beaten.

The Ocean Stars will travel away for the return leg.

Somalia XI:

Bonface Osano

African Football Writer contributing @Soka25east | Commentator; appeared on @MySoccerAfrica, @KweseSports, @ntvkenya, others | Keen follower of African Football. E-mail: bonfaceosano@gmail.com