AFCON 2027 qualifiers: Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria and Rwanda claim opening-day wins

Guinea-Bissau began their Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying campaign with a 2-0 victory over co-hosts Tanzania on Friday, while Nigeria, Gambia and Rwanda also secured important wins.

The Lycaons took control of a competitive match through Franculino Dju, who opened the scoring in the 33rd minute. Mama Balde added a second in the 58th minute to give Guinea-Bissau three valuable points.

Tanzania are already guaranteed a place at the tournament as co-hosts but still provided a lively challenge to their opponents. Guinea-Bissau’s greater efficiency in front of goal ultimately proved decisive.

Nigeria recover after early setback

Nigeria came from behind to beat Madagascar 2-1 in Group L, despite being without Victor Osimhen.

Ehsan Kari put Madagascar ahead in the 16th minute, giving the Barea an ideal start against the Super Eagles. Nigeria responded through their younger players, with George Ilenikhena equalising in first-half stoppage time.

Moses Usor completed the turnaround in the 65th minute as Nigeria secured all three points.

Gambia also had to work hard for a 2-1 victory over Somalia. Ebrima Colley gave the Scorpions the lead from the penalty spot after 18 minutes, but Somalia responded after half-time through Bilal Njie in the 72nd minute.

The hosts, playing at home again after several years away, regained the advantage seven minutes from time. Mohamed Badamosi’s 83rd-minute goal earned Gambia a crucial win at the start of their campaign in Group C.

Rwanda make strong start in Kigali

Rwanda produced one of the day’s most convincing performances, beating Liberia 3-1 at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali.

The Amavubi made a rapid start as Abeddy Biramahire scored after two minutes. Leroy-Jacques Mickels doubled their advantage in the 33rd minute, but Sylvanus Nimely pulled one back for the Lone Stars before the interval.

Rwanda responded immediately, with Joy-Lance Mickels converting a penalty in the 44th minute. They controlled the second half against a Liberia side reduced to 10 players.

Egypt were held to a goalless draw by Angola at the Cairo International Stadium. Egypt dominated possession on their return after their impressive World Cup campaign, with Mohamed Salah among the experienced players involved.

Angola’s Palancas Negras defended in a compact and disciplined formation. Both sides missed clear opportunities, with Mahmoud Saber and Mabululu among those unable to break the deadlock.

Elsewhere on Friday, 25 September, Morocco defeated Gabon 2-0. Algeria and Mali both recorded 3-1 victories against Zambia and Cape Verde respectively.

Senegal, managed by Patrick Vieira, were held to a 1-1 draw by Mozambique. Niger and Malawi each won 2-1, while Togo and Sudan recorded 1-0 victories. Burkina Faso and Benin drew 1-1.