Today, January 22, Guinea-Bissau will face Nigeria in the final group stage clash with no points gained from two matches played in Group A of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This automatically means the Djurtus are out of the competition.
On the other hand, the Super Eagles of Nigeria sit second on the table with 4 points. The three-time champions will seek a win against Guinea-Bissau to top of Group A if; this depends on Equatorial Guinea failing to win tomorrow against the host nation Côte dÍvoire.
In a twist of events, if the Djurtus defeat unbeaten Nigeria in the final round of matches in Group A, they have a chance at progressing as one of the best third-placed sides despite their defeat to Equatorial Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire.
Pre-match stats
Guinea-Bissau and Nigeria have not drawn any of their last three matches against each other.
Guinea-Bissau have failed to win a single game in Group A.
Nigeria has conceded only 1 goal in the competition.
Guinea-Bissau has conceded the most goals (6) in Group A.
Team News
Despite winning the game-winning penalty, Victor Osimhen’s sloppy finishing could have cost José Peseiro’s side against Ivory Coast. The 2023 CAF African Player of the Year missed two crucial chances; when passed through by Samuel Chukwueze and headed over from Ola Aina’s throw-in.
Peseiro, who shifted to a back five to meet particular threats against the Elephants on Thursday, could return to a back four against the Djurtus.
Zaidu Sanusi is ruled out due to injury, and the Porto left-back may miss Monday’s game. Kelechi Iheanacho, who has yet to play at AFCON 2023, and Alhassan Yusuf, who was hurt in the first game, could play on Monday if cleared to participate.
Mama Balde, who scored the only goal in Guinea-Bissau’s 2023 victory over the Super Eagles, should lead the attack in Monday’s crucial match.
Ze Turbo, who scored against Equatorial Guinea, and Dalcio, who set him up, are vying for starting positions against the Super Eagles.
Guinea-Bissau vs Nigeria Head-to-Head
Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau have met three times with Nigeria winning two out of three of their meetings.
Possible Lineup
Guinea-Bissau:
Djoco; Encada, Djalo, Mane, Cande; Semedo, Bikel, Cassama; Rodrigues, Dju, Balde
Nigeria:
Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Omeruo, Onyemaechi; Simon, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman; Moffi, Osimhen
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