The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face a tough test against the Wild Dogs of Guinea-Bissau in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier today. The match, which will be played at the Estádio 24 de Setembro in Bissau, kicks off at 4pm local time and 5pm in Nigeria. Both teams are seeking to gain an early advantage in Group L, with the winner taking a significant step towards qualifying for the tournament.
The Super Eagles and Wild Dogs are level on three points each, having won their opening matches on Friday. Guinea-Bissau lead the group on goal difference, thanks to their 2-0 away win over Tanzania in Zanzibar. Franculino Djú and Mama Baldé scored the goals for the Wild Dogs, who are seeking to cause an upset in the tournament. Nigeria, on the other hand, came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, with George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring the goals.
The match assumes greater significance given the absence of Victor Osimhen, who is out of both September qualifiers due to injury. This puts the spotlight on Ilenikhena and Usor, who made their debuts against Madagascar. The Super Eagles will also be relying on the experience of Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Moses Simon, who have all been in top form. Simon, in particular, made his 100th Nigeria appearance against Madagascar, while Iwobi is on 101 caps.
The Wild Dogs will be looking to Baldé, who scored the goal that gave Guinea-Bissau a 1-0 win over Nigeria in Abuja during qualification for the 2023 AFCON. Nigeria won the return 1-0 in Bissau through a Simon penalty. The match will be a closely contested affair, with both teams seeking to gain the upper hand in Group L. A win for either team will give them a significant advantage in the group.
Coach Eric Chelle will want a steadier start for the Super Eagles, who conceded a goal inside 16 minutes against Madagascar. The team will need to be solid at the back, with Stanley Nwabali making a crucial save to keep the scores level before Usor's winner. The Super Eagles will need to be at their best to overcome the Wild Dogs, who are a strong side.
The result of the match will not settle the group, but it will decide who defends a lead and who chases one in the next international window. Four qualifying games will remain after Tuesday, and the Super Eagles will need to be focused on picking up more points. A win against the Wild Dogs will give them a significant boost in their quest to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.
The Super Eagles have been warned about the threat posed by the Wild Dogs, with Chelle cautioning his team about their opponents' strength. Ikpeme has also urged the Super Eagles to secure a victory, which he believes is crucial in their quest to qualify for the tournament. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between two teams seeking to make their mark in African football.
Key points
- The Super Eagles face a tough test against the Wild Dogs of Guinea-Bissau in a crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
- The match will decide who takes an early lead in Group L, with both teams seeking to qualify for the tournament.
- The Super Eagles will be without Victor Osimhen due to injury, which puts the spotlight on Ilenikhena and Usor.
