AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Guinea-Bissau beat Tanzania 2-0 to make a winning start

Guinea-Bissau made a winning start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over Tanzania at Amaan Stadium.

Franculino opened the scoring for Guinea-Bissau in the 33rd minute before Mama Balde doubled their advantage after the break to secure all three points in Group L.

Franculino puts Guinea-Bissau ahead

Guinea-Bissau took control of the contest when Franculino broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute.

The forward was set up by Beto, giving Guinea-Bissau a 1-0 lead as Tanzania were left with a deficit to overcome.

Tanzania were unable to find a response before half-time, with Guinea-Bissau taking their narrow advantage into the break.

Mama Balde seals victory

Guinea-Bissau continued to push for a second goal after the restart and were rewarded in the 58th minute.

Mama Balde found the net following an assist from Dalcio to give the visitors a two-goal cushion.

Tanzania could not find a way back into the game as Guinea-Bissau held on to claim a valuable three points in their opening Group L fixture.

Guinea-Bissau face Nigeria next

Guinea-Bissau will now turn their attention to their next Group L fixture against Nigeria.

Tanzania, meanwhile, will face Madagascar in their next qualifying match.

Nigeria are also due to begin their Group L campaign against Madagascar in the other fixture.