Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been handed a timely opportunity to revive their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after Group L leaders Guinea-Bissau were held to a 1-1 draw by Madagascar.
The result ended Guinea-Bissau’s perfect start to the AFCON 2027 qualifiers and has reopened the race for the group’s sole automatic qualification ticket. Tanzania have already secured a place at the tournament as co-hosts, leaving Nigeria, Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar battling for the remaining spot.
Playing in Antananarivo on Thursday, Madagascar looked set to claim a famous victory after Warren Caddy broke the deadlock shortly before the hour mark. However, Guinea-Bissau rescued a point late in the game when Renato Nhaga found the net with just minutes remaining.
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While the draw prevented Guinea-Bissau from suffering defeat, it also slowed their momentum at a crucial stage of the campaign. The West Africans had entered the match with maximum points from their opening fixtures, including a commanding 3-0 victory over Nigeria in September.
The outcome will be welcomed by Super Eagles supporters, who watched their team’s qualification hopes take a hit after that heavy loss in Bissau. Nigeria began the campaign with a 2-1 win over Madagascar before suffering the setback against Guinea-Bissau.
Guinea-Bissau now sit top of Group L with seven points from three matches, while Madagascar have two points. Nigeria remain well placed to apply pressure if they can secure victory in their next fixture against Tanzania in Uyo.
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A win for coach Eric Chelle’s side would significantly improve Nigeria’s standing in the group and strengthen hopes of reaching the continental tournament. With only one qualification place available through the group, every dropped point and every victory could prove decisive.
For the Super Eagles, the equation is now simple: take advantage of Guinea-Bissau’s slip-up and put their AFCON 2027 campaign firmly back on track. The opening has arrived. Nigeria must now make it count.
