Entering a crucial juncture in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, Guinea, led by coach Kaba Diawara, gears up for a must-win encounter against Gambia.
Following a 1-1 draw with Cameroon in their opening fixture, Diawara emphasizes the significance of securing three points, especially with a daunting clash against defending champions Senegal looming in the final group stage fixture.
Guinea faces selection challenges with striker François Kamano suspended and doubts surrounding the fitness of Naby Keïta. The Werder Bremen midfielder, if fit, could be a game-changer for Guinea, who boasts an impressive record of just one defeat in their last seven internationals (W3, D3).
However, history suggests a tough challenge against Gambia, whom Guinea has beaten only twice in their last 11 head-to-head encounters (D6, L3). Gambia, despite a 3-0 defeat to Senegal in their opening match, had a remarkable run to the quarter-finals in the 2022 edition. Coach Tom Saintfiet remains optimistic, believing that four points could secure qualification for the last 16.
The key battle to watch unfolds between Guinea’s unbeaten forward Mohamed Bayo and Gambia’s goalkeeper Baboucarr Gaye, known for keeping clean sheets in eight of his 18 internationals.
With five of Guinea’s last six competitive matches witnessing both teams scoring, the clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams seek crucial points in their quest for AFCON success.
