The Super Eagles of Nigeria were handed a humiliating 3-0 defeat by Guinea Bissau in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on September 24. The match, played at the 24 September Stadium in Bissau, saw the home team dominate the proceedings, scoring a goal in each half. The loss has dented Nigeria's qualification bid, with the team now second in Group L with 3 points from two matches.
Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, was scathing in his assessment of the Super Eagles' defense, saying the players lacked the fighting spirit the team is known for. Ikpeba, speaking on Supersports immediately after the match, also questioned the team's dependence on foreign-based players. The team's coach, Eric Chelle, made several changes to the lineup that secured a slim win over Madagascar, including starting Taiwo Awoniyi up front and Frank Onyeka in midfield.
The hosts took the lead in the 15th minute through Franculino Djú, who created space on the edge of the box and curled the ball into the bottom far corner. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was unable to make a save, rooted to the spot as the ball sailed past him. The Super Eagles had started the match on a positive note, with Nwabali clearing the defensive lines early on to prevent an early goal.
Despite efforts to get back into the match, the Super Eagles conceded again in the 66th minute, this time through Mama Baldé. The Guinea Bissau player beat Bright Osayi-Samuel into the box and slotted the ball into the bottom corner, doubling the host team's lead. The Super Eagles were unable to mount a comeback, and their woes were compounded deep in added time.
Álvaro Djaló sealed the win for Guinea Bissau in added time, dancing into the penalty area and slotting the ball home. The win marked only the second time the Djurtus have beaten the Eagles in AFCON qualifiers, after their shock win in Abuja in 2023. It was also their second-ever victory in five meetings between the two teams.
The result has significant implications for the 2027 AFCON qualification campaign, with Guinea Bissau leading Group L with 6 points from two matches. The Super Eagles, on the other hand, are second with 3 points, and will need to regroup and reassess their strategy to stay in contention. Coach Chelle will have to address the team's defensive frailties to prevent similar results in the future.
The Super Eagles will look to bounce back from this defeat, but for now, they will have to contend with the criticism of their performance. Victor Ikpeba's comments on the team's defense and dependence on foreign players will likely spark a debate on the team's strategy and player selection. The team's next match will be crucial in determining their chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON.
Key points
- The Super Eagles suffered a 3-0 defeat to Guinea Bissau in a 2027 AFCON qualifier.
- Victor Ikpeba criticized the Super Eagles' defense, saying the players lacked the fighting spirit the team is known for.
- The loss has dented Nigeria's qualification bid, with the team now second in Group L with 3 points from two matches.
