Nigeria will look to build on their opening-day victory when they face Guinea-Bissau in the second round of 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo on Friday, while Guinea-Bissau defeated co-hosts Tanzania by the same scoreline to make a winning start to Group L.
With only one qualifying place available from the group because Tanzania are guaranteed a place at the 2027 tournament as co-hosts, Tuesday’s meeting carries added importance for both sides.
Nigeria seek another crucial victory
Eric Chelle’s side were made to work for their opening victory after Madagascar took the lead through Ehsan Kari in the 16th minute.
Nigeria struggled to create clear opportunities during the early stages, but George Ilenikhena changed the momentum by equalising in first-half stoppage time.
Moses Usor then completed the comeback after the hour mark, scoring on his Super Eagles debut to give Nigeria all three points.
Tolu Arokodare also came close to adding a third goal, striking the woodwork after being played through by Alex Iwobi.
The result left Nigeria level on three points with Guinea-Bissau at the top of Group L, setting up a crucial early meeting in Bissau.
Chelle will also be encouraged by the performances of Ilenikhena and Usor, with both players making their international debuts and finding the net.
Guinea-Bissau looking to repeat 2023 upset
Guinea-Bissau also made an impressive start by defeating Tanzania 2-1 in Zanzibar.
Franculino Dju opened the scoring in the 33rd minute before Mama Balde doubled the advantage, continuing his impressive record against Tanzania and his importance to the Djurtus attack.
Balde was also the match-winner when Guinea-Bissau defeated Nigeria 1-0 in Abuja during qualifying for the 2023 AFCON.
That remains Guinea-Bissau’s only victory over the Super Eagles, but the result will provide confidence ahead of Tuesday’s encounter.
The Djurtus missed the 2025 AFCON in Morocco after making four consecutive appearances at the tournament and will be determined to return to the continental competition.
Nigeria team news
Chelle is expected to retain Stanley Nwabali in goal after Maduka Okoye arrived late in camp.
Ola Aina could keep his place at right-back, although Bright Osayi-Samuel is pushing for a starting role.
Usor’s impressive debut could also earn him a place in the starting XI, while Moses Simon is another option in attack.
Ilenikhena is expected to feature again after scoring against Madagascar, while Ademola Lookman remains one of Nigeria’s key attacking threats.
Guinea-Bissau, meanwhile, will be without Fali Cande and Elves Balde through injury. Ronaldo Vieira will be assessed after picking up a knock against Tanzania.
What happens next?
A victory for either side would provide an important advantage in the race for the group’s sole qualifying place.
Nigeria have the higher FIFA ranking and greater tournament experience, but Guinea-Bissau will have home advantage and the confidence of their 2023 victory over the Super Eagles.
The result in Bissau could therefore have a significant impact on the early shape of Group L, with both teams looking to establish themselves at the top before the qualifying campaign develops further.
