Guinea-Bissau will look to avoid a group-stage exit when they face Nigeria in the African Cup of Nations. Djurtus lost to both Equatorial Guinea and the Ivory Coast. They still have a chance to advance as one of the top third-place teams if they defeat Nigeria.
Preview (Guinea-Bissau vs. Nigeria)
After falling short 4-2 against top-seeded Equatorial Guinea on Thursday, Guinea-Bissau’s chances of qualifying for AFCON 2023 look dire. In addition to finishing last in Group A, Baciro Cande’s team’s -4 goal differential could make things more difficult. Only a victory over Jose Peseiro’s team would offer Djurtus a chance to change the tide at the Cup of Nations, despite their participation in three AFCONs before this year’s tournament.
Surprisingly, in March 2023, Guinea-Bissau shocked the giants at home by defeating them 1-0 in the qualifying round. He laments his team’s careless finishing before the Equatoguineans took control in Thursday’s setback. Regarding the Super Eagles, they have to be ready for Monday’s pivotal match to qualify. They have won three times already. Peseiro’s team is in control after defeating Ivory Coast 1-0 in front of a biased crowd. Four points should be plenty to guarantee a spot in the first round of elimination.
On Thursday, the Portuguese tactician shocked both spectators by switching from a 4-2-3-1 to a 5-4-1 formation. It is unclear if the coach would stick with this strategy in their last Group A match. Even though the Super Eagles might finish first with a win, the African giants need to improve. They missed numerous excellent opportunities in the draw with Equatorial Guinea even if they defeated the Elephants. Whatever the case, the club’s obvious defensive strength helps them in tournament football. They will try to overcome a team they defeated 2-0 at AFCON 2021.
Team News
In Monday’s pivotal match, Mama Balde, who scored the game’s lone goal in Guinea-Bissau’s 2023 victory against the Super Eagles, ought to be the main offensive weapon. Against the Super Eagles, Ze Turbo—who scored against the Equatoguineans—and Dalcio—who assisted him—are vying for the starting lineup. Cande is anticipated to continue using the 4-3-3 formation that was used against Equatorial Guinea and the hosts, notwithstanding the results of the first two games. Victor Osimhen’s careless finishing against Ivory Coast could have cost Peseiro’s team even though they won the game-winning penalty.
Peseiro may go back to a back four against Djurtus after switching to a back five against the Elephants on Thursday to neutralize certain threats. Due to injury, Zaidu Sanusi was forced to leave the game and may not play on Monday. Kelechi Iheanacho, who has not yet participated in AFCON 2023, and Alhassan Yusuf, who was hurt in the first game, may play on Monday provided they are deemed fit.
Guinea-Bissau 0-2 Nigeria
For more football previews, click here
