In the build-up to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, Guinea is gearing up for a potential upset against their more fancied opponents in Group C.
Finalists in 1976, the Guineans are eager to reconnect with their glorious past and make a mark in the upcoming tournament.
Drawn into a challenging Group C alongside reigning champions Senegal, former champions Cameroon, and The Gambia, Guinea faces a tough road ahead.
Despite the formidable opposition, the Guineans are ambitious and are eyeing advancement beyond the group stages, building on their quarterfinal appearance in the 2021 edition.
Coach Kaba Diawara will be relying on key players such as Mohamed Bayo, Aguibou Camara, and the prolific Serhou Guirassy for individual brilliance as they kick off their TotalEnergies AFCON campaign against Cameroon on January 15 at the Charles-Konan-Banny Stadium in Yamoussoukro.
Guinea’s journey to the tournament wasn’t without its suspense, as they had to wait until the last day of qualifiers to secure their ticket to Cote d’Ivoire. A goalless draw between Ethiopia and Malawi played out favorably for Guinea, who finished second behind Egypt in their group.
One player to watch during the tournament is Serhou Guirassy, a goal poacher with an impressive record of 19 goals from 16 matches with Vfb Stuttgart in Germany.
Despite making his debut in the TotalEnergies AFCON at 27, Guirassy’s confidence is high, and his unique ability to finish with both feet makes him a serious threat to defenders and goalkeepers.
Heading the team is coach Kaba Diawara, appointed in 2021, who will be leading Guinea for the second consecutive TotalEnergies AFCON.
Known for his tactical acumen and motivational skills, Diawara favors the 4-3-3 formation and will be relying on his players to adapt and master the system against some of the continent’s best players.
As Guinea looks to improve on its historical record at the TotalEnergies AFCON, the team’s determination and the guidance of Coach Diawara could be the ingredients for a potential upset in Group C.
The stage is set for an exciting clash as Guinea faces Cameroon in their opening match on January 15, with fans eagerly anticipating a strong performance from the underdogs.
