Guinea's national team, the Syli, received a morale boost on September 29 with a visit from Minister of Sports Cellou Baldé at their hotel in Conakry. The team had just returned from Johannesburg, where they lost their first-day match of the CAN 2027 qualifiers to South Africa. With their next match against Kenya scheduled for October 1 at the Stade du 28 Septembre, Baldé came to offer his support and reassurance of the government's backing.
During the meeting, Baldé expressed his encouragement and congratulations to the team, acknowledging the challenging journey to South Africa. He urged the players to maintain their morale and focus on the upcoming match against Kenya. The Minister emphasized the importance of securing a win in front of the Guinean people, stating that he believes the team has the spirit to overcome their opponents.
One of the key concerns raised by the team's coach, Paulo Duarte, was addressed by Baldé: the difficulties faced by Guinean players when traveling abroad due to administrative issues, particularly with obtaining visas. The Minister announced that President Mamadi Doumbouya has approved the issuance of service passports to the players, which should alleviate these issues. This move aims to streamline the process and enable the team to focus on their performances.
The Minister also addressed another pressing matter: the payment of player bonuses. Baldé assured the team that arrangements have been made to settle these payments before the match against Kenya. He confirmed that the necessary funds have been secured and will be disbursed in a timely manner, ensuring that the players can concentrate on their game without distraction.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns, Baldé emphasized the team's primary objective: qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Following their defeat to South Africa, the Syli must now respond strongly against Kenya to keep their qualification hopes alive. The Minister stressed the importance of achieving this goal, urging the players to give their all to secure a spot in the tournament.
The visit also highlighted the government's commitment to supporting the team throughout their campaign. Baldé assured the players that arrangements are being made for their safe return to their respective clubs after the international break. This gesture demonstrates the government's dedication to ensuring the well-being and career continuity of the players.
As the Syli prepares to face Kenya on October 1, the team's morale has been significantly boosted by the Minister's visit. With the promise of service passports, timely bonus payments, and government support, the players are now focused on delivering a strong performance and taking a crucial step towards CAN 2027 qualification.
Key points
- Guinea's Minister of Sports Cellou Baldé visits national team to offer support and assurance ahead of CAN 2027 qualifier against Kenya.
- Minister announces issuance of service passports to alleviate visa issues for Guinean players.
- Team's bonus payments to be settled before match against Kenya, with government backing.
