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Guinea-Bissau make early impression against Nigeria in 2027 AFCON qualifier
Guinea-Bissau have made the stronger start against Nigeria in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, dominating the opening exchanges in a match being played on a poor surface.
The Djurtus and the Super Eagles began their Group L campaigns with victories. Guinea-Bissau won 2-0 away to Tanzania, while Nigeria secured a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo.
A win for Nigeria would strengthen their position in the group and move them closer to qualification for the 2027 AFCON tournament. Guinea-Bissau, meanwhile, would remain top of Group L with three points.
The fixture was expected to be closely contested, with Guinea-Bissau having established themselves as a difficult opponent in recent meetings with Nigeria.
Match updates
5 minutes: Play is under way in Guinea-Bissau, where the hosts have controlled the opening stages.
8 minutes: The pitch is causing visible difficulties for both teams. The surface looks poor and players are struggling to move the ball cleanly across it.
Nigeria team news
Nigeria coach Eric Chelle made three changes to the side that defeated Madagascar last Friday.
Ola Aina, Samuel Chukwueze and George Ilenikhena have been named among the substitutes. Bright Osayi-Samuel comes into the team at right-back, while Frank Onyeka starts in a three-man midfield.
Taiwo Awoniyi partners Akor Adams in attack, with Wilfred Ndidi retaining the captain’s armband.
Guinea-Bissau line-up
Guinea-Bissau manager Emiliano Te has selected a strong starting XI for the contest.
Beto leads the attack, supported by Mama Balde and Trabzonspor forward Dju Franculino. Renato Nhaga, Ronaldo Vieira and Dalcio form the midfield.
The line-ups suggest both managers have placed particular emphasis on controlling the centre of the pitch, setting up a demanding midfield contest from the early stages.
Kick-off had been scheduled for just over an hour after the pre-match team news was announced, with both sides aware of the importance of the result in the race for qualification.