The two West-African sides will lock horns for the first time in history in their final group stage game, which could hold dire consequences for the Djurtus if they lose
Nigeria will play their final group stage game of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations on Wednesday when they square off against Guinea-Bissau.
It is a tie that pitches two teams who have had contrasting fortunes at the 2021 AFCON, against each other.
Nigeria have already qualified for the knockout stages, having won their two games, posting dominant displays in their games against Egypt and Sudan.
But Guinea-Bissau played a goalless draw against Sudan in their first game and suffered an agonising loss to Egypt in their second game due to a VAR decision that ruled out what was supposed to be their equaliser.
A draw for the Super Eagles will cement their spot at the summit of Group D, but the Guinea-Bissauans are condemned to win if they do not want a repeat of the last two editions when they got knocked out in the group stage.
Head-to-head
This is the first time that the two West-African sides are facing each other. But judging from the last five games, Nigeria are overwhelming favourites.
Nigeria have four wins and one draw from their last five games, while Guinea-Bissau have two losses and three draws from their previous five.
Team News
The Super Eagles have given unprecedented displays at the AFCON. Their poor preparation gave room for doubts on what they could bring to the table. But so far, they have proven to be one of the favourites.
Nigeria have qualified for the next round, and coach Augustine Eguavoen could make a few changes to the team, although he explained that the changes would be minimal.
Eguavoen has the full complements of his team. Defender Chidozie Awaziem is back in training and could get his chance to impress.
However, Guinea-Bissau coach Baciro has a headache, as Joseph Mendes and Maurice Gomis have been ruled out with Covid-19.
Also, Alfa Semedo, Nanu and Mimito Biai are big doubts.
Nigeria possible XI: Okoye, Awaziem, Troost-Ekong, Collins, Aina, Ndidi, Aribo, Musa, Awoniyi, Iwobi, Moses.
Guinea-Bissau possible XI: Mendes, Encada, Sangante, Mane, Cande, Nogueira, Cassama, Ambri, Camara, Piqueti, Balde.
Unarguably, Nigeria have more quality than the Guinea-Bissauans, but the Djurtus would look to cause an upset, bearing in mind that the Super Eagles could be complacent.
Nigeria forward Moses Simon has a huge shout for MVP of the tournament, and he could continue with his excellent form against Guinea-Bissau.
Prediction
Because of the gulf in quality between both sides, Nigeria should do the job against Guinea-Bissau. A 2-0 victory should suffice.
This post was last modified on January 23, 2022 3:24 pm