Derek Boateng was impressive in the second game for the Black Stars

Ghana believe a physical and defensive Niger will pose their biggest challenge yet when the teams clash in a decisive Africa Cup of Nations Group B tie on Monday.

Second favourites behind Ivory Coast to win the tournament, the Black Stars of Ghana top Group B with four points after an opening-day stumble against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The match ended in a draw after squandering a two-goal lead and they have now had the chance of observing the Nigeriens playing twice.

“We have watched Niger play DR Congo and Mali. They are a very physical and tactically disciplined team and this match will be more difficult than our first two,” warned midfielder Derek Boateng.

“Niger are no pushovers and we have to do more to beat them,” added Bristol City midfielder Albert Adomah.

“No game is easy here, but we are getting better as a team and, hopefully, we will move to the next stage.”

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah said his team will have to be very fit and prepared for a physical battle at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in this Indian Ocean city.

“We have to be very prepared for this match against a very tactically disciplined side because this will most likely be our biggest test so far,” said Appiah.

“But I have total confidence in my players even though many of them are featuring at this tournament for the first time. We will take this competition one match at a time.”