In a high-stakes showdown, Guinea-Bissau is set to face Nigeria in their final group game at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with the Djurtus aiming to make history by securing their first-ever victory in the competition. Despite already being eliminated, Guinea-Bissau, led by manager Baciro Candé, is determined to salvage pride and end their AFCON campaign on a positive note.
Guinea-Bissau’s AFCON journey has been challenging, with defeats to Ivory Coast and Equatorial Guinea extending their winless streak to 11 matches (D3), prompting calls for a managerial change. Candé remains hopeful, but his team faces a tough task against Nigeria, especially considering their recent defensive struggles, conceding 12 goals in their last three defeats.
On the other side, Nigeria, the three-time AFCON champions, are eyeing a victory that would secure their place at the top of Group A, provided Equatorial Guinea fails to beat Ivory Coast. The Super Eagles, led by manager José Peseiro, secured a surprise 1-0 win over Ivory Coast in their last outing, and they are eager to build on that success.
With Nigeria having lost only three of their last 22 AFCON group games, dating back to January 2004, Guinea-Bissau faces a formidable challenge. Players to watch include Zinha Gano for Guinea-Bissau, who has shown a penchant for second-half goals, and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, who boasts an unbeaten record in games where he finds the net.
As both teams aim for a positive result, the match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Guinea-Bissau seeking a historic win and Nigeria looking to secure their place at the top of the group. The outcome of this clash will not only impact the teams’ AFCON journey but also determine the narrative for their future campaigns.
