Italian coach Annese has revealed his second consecutive squad for the Nzalang Nacional, maintaining the same group of players from his previous selection. This decision comes ahead of two crucial matches against Zimbabwe, which will be significant for Annese as he makes his first appearance before the Equatoguinean fans. The team's performance in these matches is crucial, especially given their current standing in Group E.
The upcoming matches against Zimbabwe will take place on November 12 and 16. The first match is scheduled to be held at the Nkoantoma stadium in Bata, following a temporary authorization granted by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA. This development allows Equatorial Guinea to host international matches at this venue. The second match will be held at the National Sports Stadium in Zimbabwe.
Annese's squad selection includes goalkeepers Manuel Sapunga, Marcos Luis Ondo, Miguel Ángel, and Óscar Eyama Mangue. Defenders such as Saúl Coco, Esteban Orozco, Rony Mbo Mio, Prince Michael Ngaah Bollos, Basilio Ndong, José Eló, Charles Ond, and Carlos Akapo have also been called up. The midfield will feature Junior Bita, Jannick Buyla, Santiago Eneme, Pablo Ganet, Alex Balboa, Alex Mesogo, and Gael Akogo.
The forward line for the Nzalang Nacional includes Salomón Obama, Dorian Junior Hanza, Loren Zúñiga, José Nabil Ondó, Luis Miguel Nlavo, Enrique Esono, Josete Boacho, and Miranda. With this squad, Annese aims to secure a positive outcome in the matches against Zimbabwe. The team's current position in Group E, with three points, makes these upcoming matches critical.
The Group E standings are currently led by the Democratic Republic of Congo. Equatorial Guinea's matches against Zimbabwe are part of the fourth and fifth matchdays of the qualifying campaign. A good performance in these matches could help the team improve its position in the group.
The first match against Zimbabwe on November 12 is set to kick off at 18:00 hours local time at the Nkoantoma stadium in Bata. The return match on November 16 will start at 15:00 hours local time at the National Sports Stadium in Harare, Zimbabwe. These timings are crucial for fans planning to attend the matches.
With these matches, coach Annese will have the opportunity to assess his team's performance and make necessary adjustments ahead of future qualifying matches. The outcome of these matches will be vital for Equatorial Guinea's prospects in the competition, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the results.
Key points
- The Nzalang Nacional will face Zimbabwe on November 12 and 16 in Group E qualifying matches.
- Coach Annese has maintained the same squad from his previous selection for these crucial matches.
- The matches will be significant for Annese as he makes his first appearance before the Equatoguinean fans.