Africa Cup Of Nations Best Bets - September 25

Niger may be the big favourites to win their clash with Lesotho, but they have not been in great form for some time. Indeed, their last six outings have ended in three draws and three defeats. Prior to this, they had won three consecutive matches against Tanzania, Congo and Zambia in a solid run. Generally, the home side have seen a swathe of poor results all come at the same time before a cluster of good results. Niger will take heart from Lesotho's 4-0 loss in their last away game, and I back the home side to come out on top against their opponents. 

Nigeria could not take their place at the 2026 World Cup after a disappointing campaign that ended with them being forced to watch the showpiece event from afar. Across the latter stage of last season, Nigeria were able to beat Zimbabwe and Jamaica before drawing 2-2 with Poland and losing 2-1 to Portugal. These four result saw Nigeria impress and they will want to build on the momentum of an improved run. Of course, it is worth bearing in mind that Nigeria failed to beat either Poland or Portugal, but a draw and a one-goal defeat against two strong sides was not a bad return. With two wins coming in the previous three meetings between the sides, I back Nigeria to beat Madagascar to nil for the third time in four games.