Nigeria’s second match of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign ended in a stunning 3-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau.
The Super Eagles went to Bissau with the intention of challenging Group L’s leadership.
However, the hosts took charge of the match and gained the lead prior to halftime.
In the 66th minute of the game, Mama Baldé of the Djurtus extended their lead after Franculino Djú curled a shot past Stanley Nwabali.
In stoppage time, Álvaro Djaló scored a third goal.
But what did this game teach us?
1. Players and coaches had a bad day: Eric Chelle and the Super Eagles were at a loss for answers on this particular day. Chelle made a several personnel and tactical errors, the most glaring of which was selecting Taiwo Awoniyi to start the game. The momentum was not altered in any way by his panicked substitutions. Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi, the two full-backs, were dreadful. There was no width, and Wilfred Ndidi performed poorly in midfield.
2. (African) football has no minnows: It’s not really a cliche, but in today’s football world, you have to give it your all to defeat any side. Guinea-Bissau’s efforts were fully rewarded. Their three aims were the bare minimum of compensation for their hard work and diligence. They are currently leading Group L by three points.
However, he ended the match alongside George Ilenikhena and Tolu Arokodare. However, none of them were able to make a significant difference in the game. It demonstrates that Osimhen is still the Super Eagles’ lucky charm despite all of his problems.
4. Nigeria has a serious risk of missing the upcoming AFCON: The Super Eagles are in a familiar situation after just two games: competing to earn a spot in tournaments. They are already three points behind the leaders after losing to Guinea-Bissau. Given that just one club will receive a ticket from Group L, the three-time African champions are now doomed to win every match they have left.