Guinea target victory over Eritrea in CAN 2027 qualifier as Guirassy faces fitness doubt

Guinea will welcome Eritrea to the Stade du 28 Septembre on Thursday, 12 November 2026, in the third round of qualifying for the CAN 2027. The Syli National need three points to stay in touch with South Africa at the top of Group D.

Serhou Guirassy’s availability is the main concern for Guinea before the match. The Borussia Dortmund forward suffered a thigh injury in the Champions League and could miss the fixture. His absence would be a significant blow to Guinea’s attacking options as they seek a result that would strengthen their position in the group.

Despite that doubt, Guinea are expected to field a competitive starting XI.

Guinea’s probable XI

Goalkeeper: Mohamed Camara

Defenders: Ibrahim Diakite, Mouctar Diakhaby, Mohamed Soumah, Issiaga Sylla

Midfielders: Mory Konate, Amadou Diawara, Seydouba Cisse

Forwards: Aliou Balde, Lamine Diaby-Fadiga, Yadaly Diaby

Guinea’s likely team includes a four-man defence, with Ibrahim Diakite and Issiaga Sylla expected to operate on the flanks. Amadou Diawara is among the midfielders selected in the projected line-up, while Aliou Balde, Lamine Diaby-Fadiga and Yadaly Diaby are the anticipated attacking options in the possible absence of Guirassy.

Eritrea are expected to approach the game with an emphasis on defensive organisation and collective discipline. They will be looking to respond after suffering a heavy 5-0 defeat by South Africa.

The Eritrean side’s priority will be to remain compact and reduce the space available to Guinea, particularly as the hosts attempt to apply pressure from the start. Their probable line-up reflects that focus, with three midfielders positioned behind a front three.

Eritrea’s probable XI

Goalkeeper: Yonathan Sultan

Defenders: Hennos Asmelash, Jamal Ali, Jonas Idris, Jozef Misghina

Midfielders: Ablelom Teklezghi, Nahom Netabay, Nahom Tadese

Forwards: Ali Sulieman, Awed Isaac, Esrom Yohannes

The fixture is Eritrea’s third match in the CAN 2027 qualifying campaign and presents Guinea with an opportunity to close the gap on South Africa in Group D. The hosts will be expected to take the initiative at the Stade du 28 Septembre, while Eritrea will aim to make the match more difficult by limiting openings and maintaining its defensive shape.