The Niger national football team, known as the Mena, represents the West African nation of Niger in international competition. Based in the capital city of Niamey, the team plays its home matches at the Stade Général Seyni Kountché. The team's colors are orange, white, and green, reflecting the national flag. Formed after the country's independence, the national team has been a source of national pride. Its history includes challenging campaigns in African Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifying. A key era for the Mena was their surprising qualification for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations, a historic first that galvanized the nation. In the modern era, the team continues to develop, with a squad featuring a blend of domestic-based players and those plying their trade abroad in leagues across Africa and Europe. Recent years have seen them become a more difficult opponent, capable of pulling off notable results. The team's culture is one of perseverance, representing a nation passionate about football. The Mena carry the hopes of Niger onto the continental stage.