As the eagerly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations approaches, Baciro Cand, the head coach of the Guinea-Bissau national football team, has unveiled the final roster of 25 players selected to proudly represent the nation in the prestigious tournament taking place next month.
Drawn into Group A, the Djurtus of Guinea-Bissau are set to share the stage with host country Ivory Coast, Equatorial Guinea, and Nigeria. Their journey kicks off with a formidable clash against the Elephants on January 13, followed by a potentially decisive encounter with Equatorial Guinea on the 18th. The final group-stage challenge sees them face Nigeria's Super Eagles.
In preparation for the formidable challenge ahead, Coach Cand meticulously assembled a squad of 25 players to bear the responsibility of defending the national colors in Ivory Coast. The selected lineup features a well-balanced composition, including three goalkeepers, eight defenders, seven midfielders, and seven attackers.
Among the notable names in the roster, two players stand out Mama Bald and Opa Sangante both of whom are familiar to Nigerian football enthusiasts. These players played pivotal roles in Guinea-Bissau's unexpected 1-0 victory over the Super Eagles in March during the AFCON qualifiers.
Dunkerque midfielder Sangante showcased his skills by providing the crucial assist for Lyon forward Bald to score the lone goal of the encounter. This surprising outcome left Nigeria reeling from a disappointing loss at the National Stadium in Abuja.
In a turn of events three days later, the Super Eagles managed to turn the tables by securing a 1-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau at the Estdio Nacional 24 de Setembro in Bissau, with Moses Simon converting a penalty. Despite the setback, Nigeria rebounded strongly, winning all five remaining group games to qualify for the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast as one of the standout teams and the top-scoring side.
Looking ahead to the upcoming tournament, the Super Eagles will aim to replicate their success when they face Guinea-Bissau on matchday three at the AFCON.
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations promises thrilling football action and is scheduled to commence on January 13, captivating fans until the grand finale on February 11, 2024. The selection of Guinea-Bissau's final roster sets the stage for an exciting and competitive tournament, where nations will vie for football glory on the African continent.
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