AFCON 2027: Guinea-Bissau Stuns Nigeria, Ghana Crumbles
Guinea-Bissau delivered the shock of the tournament on Sunday, dismantling continental giants Nigeria 3-0 in Bissau to take control of their qualifying group for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The “Djurtus” dominated the three-time African champions, marking a historic afternoon for Lusophone football that also saw Mozambique claim a commanding victory.
Guinea-Bissau Stuns the Super Eagles
In a clinical performance that echoed their 2023 qualifying upset over Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau took the lead in the 15th minute through Franculino Djú. Captain Mama Baldé doubled the advantage in the 66th minute, before substitute Álvaro Djaló put the exclamation point on the victory with a stoppage-time strike in the 95th minute.
With this win, Guinea-Bissau sits comfortably at the top of Group I with six points from two matches. Nigeria remains in second place with three points, while Madagascar and Tanzania trail behind with one point each following their 1-1 draw.
Mozambique Dominates as Cape Verde Stumbles
Mozambique ignited their qualifying campaign in Group J with a resounding 4-1 win over former champions Sudan. The “Mambas” showcased their attacking depth with goals from Witi, a brace from Belenenses striker Chamito, and a strike from Ricardo Guima. Sudan managed a late consolation through a Yasin Hamed penalty, but the result was never in doubt. Mozambique now sits tied for first in the group with four points, alongside powerhouse Senegal.
However, it was a darker day for Cape Verde. Despite an early goal from Gilson Benchimol, the “Blue Sharks” collapsed at home against Rwanda, losing 2-1. Under the guidance of Humberto Bettencourt, Cape Verde remains rooted to the bottom of Group K without a point, while Rwanda maintains a perfect record alongside Tony da Silva’s Mali.
Ghana Crumbles Under Pressure
In Group C, the crisis deepened for Ghana. Led by veteran Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, the four-time African champions suffered a catastrophic 4-2 home defeat to Gambia. Despite racing to a 2-0 lead through Ernest Nuamah and Felix Afena-Gyan, the “Black Stars” defense disintegrated. A brace from Ebrima Colley helped Gambia complete a stunning comeback, leaving Ghana at the bottom of the group with zero points.
Meanwhile, reigning heavyweights Ivory Coast continued their steady march toward qualification with a 2-0 victory over Somalia, joining Gambia at the top of Group C with six points.
The Road to AFCON 2027
The qualifying phase will determine 21 of the 24 teams heading to the finals. The top two teams from nine of the 12 groups will secure their spots, while the winners of the three groups containing the co-hosts (Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda) will also progress.
The 36th edition of Africa’s premier football tournament is scheduled to take place from June 19 to July 17, 2027, marking the first time the event will be hosted across three nations.
Image: Pexels – Guylain Kipoke
