Guinea-Bissau defeats Nigeria 3-0 in AFCONQ clash

In a surprising turn of events, Nigeria's Super Eagles faced a heavy 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau during their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying match, which took place in Bissau on September 29, 2026. The hosts started strong, with Franculino Dju scoring in the 15th minute. Guinea-Bissau maintained their momentum, and Mama Baldé doubled their lead with a goal in the 66th minute. Álvaro Djaló sealed Nigeria's fate, adding a third goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Throughout the match, Nigeria struggled to create significant opportunities. The team’s goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, was unable to save Dju's opening shot, which curled into the far corner. Although Nigeria attempted to respond, they only produced a noteworthy chance when Ademola Lookman forced a save from Guinea-Bissau's Djoco Embadje in the first half.

Guinea-Bissau continued to capitalize on Nigeria's defensive errors. The Super Eagles made substitution changes at half-time, introducing Moses Simon and Moses Usor in hopes of revitalizing their play. Despite this, Baldé extended the hosts' advantage with a well-placed shot after cutting in from the left.

Later in the match, Nigeria’s Victor Ilenikhena came close to scoring, but Embadje made a fantastic save to deny him. As the match drew to a close, Djaló delivered a crushing blow to the Nigerian side, scoring with virtually the last kick of the game to finalize the score at 3-0.

This defeat poses a significant challenge for Nigeria in Group L of the AFCON 2027 qualifiers, which they started with a victory. As Tanzania, one of the co-hosts of the tournament, has already secured their place, Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau find themselves battling for the remaining qualification slot in the group.