Guinea secured a second successive victory in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers by beating Eritrea at the stade General Lansana Conte de Nongo, despite being without several established players.
The result came after Guinea’s defeat by South Africa on the opening matchday and gives Paulo Duarte’s side an important advantage ahead of the return fixture against Eritrea in Asmara in a few days’ time.
Speaking exclusively to Africafoot, coach Sekou Soumah, also known as “Diego”, praised the determination shown by the Guinean players in difficult circumstances.
Only eight of the 25 players called up were present 48 hours before kick-off. Guinea were also without Serhou Guirassy, who missed the match through injury.
Despite those problems, the hosts started strongly and took control of possession and territory. Central defender Mohamed Soumah opened the scoring in the 13th minute, giving Guinea a 1-0 lead at half-time.
Duarte made changes at the interval and Yakhouba Gnagna Barry was introduced in the 46th minute. The Horoya AC centre-forward made an immediate impact, doubling Guinea’s advantage in the 53rd minute.
Barry was among the players singled out for praise by Soumah, alongside Diabate, Aguibou, Morlaye and Richard.
The coach’s assessment also recognised the contribution of a squad that had been assembled under significant pressure. Guinea’s preparation was disrupted by the late arrival of players, while the absence of Guirassy removed one of the team’s most prominent attacking options.
However, the positive result did not hide difficulties in dealing with Eritrea’s response. Eritrea refused to sit back and continued to attack, forcing Guinea’s defence to work hard for long periods.
Ibrahima Fofana, Aboubacar Keita and Sekou Oumar Sylla were identified among the players who struggled to cope with the pressure. Guinea found it difficult to maintain the match’s intensity as Eritrea increased its attacking efforts.
Soumah nevertheless emphasised the commitment of the players, who were determined to win in front of their home supporters despite the unusual circumstances surrounding the fixture.
The victory leaves Guinea with momentum before the two sides meet again in Asmara. Eritrea will now have the opportunity to respond in the fourth round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, while Duarte’s team will aim to build on a result achieved without several key members of the squad.
