Nigeria qualified for the finals of the African Nations Cup with a 3-1 win over Niger - but they were made to work for it by their neighbours.

Yakubu of Nigeria

The Super Eagles, who maintain their lead with 12 points, should beat Lesotho at home and qualify as Group 3 winners.

But even finishing second will not prevent them filling one of three slots reserved for the best runners-up.

Niger held Nigeria's famous attack - which included England-based strikers Kanu, Obafemi Martins and Yakubu Aiyegbeni - at bay until just before half time, when Kanu headed in Onyekachi Okonkwo's cross.

But Niger came out fighting after the break, and midway through the second half got their reward when Kamilou Daouda headed in.

Parity was restored for barely more than a minute, however, before Nigeria went back in front through a penalty.

Osaze's corner kick caused all sorts of confusion in the Niger defence, and the referee spotted a handball during the resulting melee.

Taiye Taiwo stepped up and converted.

But Niger still kept pressing, and Nigeria were not allowed to relax until Yakubu Aiyegbeni beat the Nigerien defence to slot past a helpless Rabo in the Niger goal.