The opening two rounds of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have produced a series of results that are challenging the established hierarchy of African football. Guinea-Bissau and Gambia secured notable victories over Nigeria and Ghana respectively, while Rwanda maintained their strong start by winning in Cape Verde. Their performances increasingly appear to be more than isolated surprises.
Guinea-Bissau produced one of the most striking results of the international window by beating Nigeria 3-0. The Djurtus had already begun their campaign with a 2-0 victory in Tanzania, leaving them with six points and in a strong position in their group.
Their success against the Super Eagles also highlighted their ability to withstand a side containing several players who compete at the highest level of European football. Guinea-Bissau not only defended effectively but also took their opportunities against one of the continent’s traditionally prominent teams.
Gambia delivered another significant statement. The Scorpions were 2-0 down to Ghana after 33 minutes, but staged a complete turnaround to win 4-2 in Accra. The result underlined their resilience and gave them an important victory against one of Africa’s most established national teams.
Rwanda have also made a perfect start to their qualifying campaign. They have won both matches, beginning with a 3-1 victory over Liberia before claiming a 2-1 success away to Cape Verde.
Somalia were unable to produce a surprise against Cote d’Ivoire, losing 2-0, but they held the hosts at bay until the final moments before conceding twice in quick succession. Their resistance nevertheless showed that the gap between some of the continent’s leading sides and less-fancied nations may be narrowing.
International experience, a growing number of players based abroad and improvements in tactical organisation have enabled several emerging teams to compete more effectively with Africa’s traditional powers. The difference between established contenders and outsiders is no longer necessarily as wide as it once was.
Qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations is therefore not determined solely by reputation, the number of players competing in major leagues or a national team’s history. The first two rounds have served as a reminder that every away match in Africa can now present a serious test for the favourites.
The remaining qualifiers will show whether these results were isolated achievements or evidence of a gradual redistribution of power across the continent.