Guinea-Bissau rescue late draw against Madagascar in AFCON 2027 qualifying

Guinea-Bissau preserved their unbeaten start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a late 1-1 draw against Madagascar in Morocco.

Madagascar, playing at a temporary home venue, appeared set for a crucial Group L victory after Warren Caddy headed them in front in the 59th minute. But substitute Renato Nhaga levelled six minutes from time with a powerful long-range strike to deny the Barea three points.

The opener came after a long throw was flicked into Caddy’s path, with the forward directing his header beyond the reach of Guinea-Bissau goalkeeper Fernando Embadje.

Guinea-Bissau responded with sustained pressure as they sought to protect their position at the top of the group. Their equaliser followed good work from Tamble Monteiro, who helped create the opening for Nhaga to fire into the net.

Some reports said Madagascar goalkeeper Geordan Dupire had made an error in the build-up, but Nhaga’s finish ensured the Djurtus took a point.

The first half produced few clear opportunities. Guinea-Bissau had the greater share of possession, at about 60%, and won more corners, while Madagascar defended well enough to keep the visitors from turning their control into a goal.

Guinea-Bissau remain top of Group L with seven points from three matches and are yet to lose. Madagascar are third with two points from their opening three games.

Nigeria face Tanzania

The draw strengthens Guinea-Bissau’s position in the race for the group’s only available qualification place, with Tanzania already guaranteed a place at the 2027 finals as co-hosts.

Madagascar’s failure to hold on to their lead leaves them under pressure in their remaining fixtures. Nigeria, who have three points from two matches and sit second, now have an opportunity to reduce the gap.

Nigeria host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, with kick-off scheduled for around 17:00 WAT.

A win for the Super Eagles would move them to within one point of Guinea-Bissau and leave them well placed before the return fixtures. Tanzania, already assured of their finals place, will have little at stake beyond disrupting Nigeria’s campaign.

Nigeria and Tanzania will meet again on 17 November in Bissau.

For Madagascar, points from their remaining matches are essential if they are to remain in contention in a tightly contested group. Guinea-Bissau’s ability to recover late against Madagascar underlined their position as Group L leaders, although the qualification race remains open.