Guinea-Bissau will face Sierra Leone in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match at Estadio Nacional 24 de Setembro.
Although Guinea-Bissau has secured a top-two spot in Group A, they aim to end their campaign on a positive note.
Read on to find out more about the match preview, team news, lineups, and our prediction.
Match Preview:
Group A’s top two teams have already been confirmed, thanks to Guinea-Bissau’s 1-0 victory over Sao Tome and Principe in mid-June and Nigeria’s late win against Sierra Leone.
With no pressure heading into the final fixture, Guinea-Bissau could potentially finish at the top if they defeat Sierra Leone and Nigeria loses to Sao Tome and Principe.
However, a draw for Guinea-Bissau may also be enough for them to secure the group’s top position.
Sierra Leone’s non-participation in next year’s AFCON was confirmed after their defeat to Nigeria, despite their valiant efforts to make a comeback.
The match against Guinea-Bissau is an opportunity for Sierra Leone to redeem their pride after being eliminated from the tournament. Their sole victory in qualifying came against Sao Tome, and they displayed strong resilience against Nigeria.
Team News:
Guinea-Bissau’s goalkeeper Jonas Mendes is expected to return for his fourth appearance in qualifying.
Famana Quizera, who has been impressive for Academico Viseu, could make his qualifying debut alongside other players.
On the other hand, Sierra Leone will be missing former Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool center-back Steven Caulker, who was not included in the squad.
Possible Lineups:
Guinea-Bissau:
- Mendes
- Fernandes
- Sangante
- Ie
- Mendy
- Gomes
- Bikel
- Camara
- Quizera
- Dju
- Mane
Sierra Leone:
- Sesay
- Kakay
- Turay
- Samura
- Samadiya
- Michael
- Kaba
- Koroma
- Kargbo
- Williams
- Fofanah
Prediction:
Given the closely contested reverse fixture that ended in a 2-2 draw, Guinea-Bissau may struggle to secure their fourth victory in qualifying. We predict a 1-1 draw between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone.