Guinea-Bissau opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Tanzania on Friday. The Djurtus secured all three points in their Group L opener at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, Bold Sports reports.
The result gives Guinea-Bissau an early advantage in the race for the only available qualifying place from Group L. Tanzania already have their place at AFCON 2027 as one of the tournament’s three co-hosts.
Guinea-Bissau needed just 33 minutes to break the deadlock. Franculino Djú found the net to put the visitors in front.
Mama Baldé then doubled the lead in the 58th minute. Tanzania tried to respond after the break, but Guinea-Bissau maintained their defensive shape and protected their advantage until full time.
The victory marked a strong start for Emiliano Té’s side. Guinea-Bissau missed the 2025 AFCON but are now targeting a return to the continental tournament.
The team’s attacking options include Franculino Djú and Mama Baldé. Both players made the difference against Tanzania.
The result also changed the early picture in Group L.
Guinea-Bissau moved onto three points after their victory. Nigeria also began their campaign with a win over Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
That leaves Guinea-Bissau and Nigeria level on points after the opening round. Guinea-Bissau, however, hold the early advantage on goal difference after their two-goal victory over Tanzania.
Madagascar and Tanzania remain without points after their opening fixtures.
CAF’s qualification format makes Group L different from most other sections. Tanzania are already guaranteed a place at the finals because they will co-host AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Uganda. Only the highest-placed team among the other three nations will claim the remaining qualifying ticket.
Guinea-Bissau will now turn their attention to Nigeria.
The Djurtus will host the Super Eagles on Tuesday, September 29, in their second Group L fixture. The match will take place at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro in Bissau.
Nigeria had already prepared for the trip before the qualifiers began, with the Super Eagles scheduled to travel to Bissau after their opening fixture in Uyo.
The meeting will now carry added significance. Both nations have three points, while only one of them can secure the available qualifying position alongside hosts Tanzania.
The Super Eagles will therefore arrive in Bissau knowing that Guinea-Bissau have already shown their ability to collect points on the road.
For Guinea-Bissau, Tuesday’s encounter offers another chance to build on their impressive opening result. The Djurtus will enter the contest with three points already secured.
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