Guinea hold off Eritrea to claim tense 2-1 win in CAN 2027 qualifiers

Guinea secured a 2-1 victory over Eritrea in Conakry on Thursday, but were forced to defend their narrow lead through a nervy finish in their third match of the CAN 2027 qualifiers.

Playing at the Stade du 28 Septembre de Conakry, Paulo Duarte’s side collected three important points after establishing a two-goal advantage. However, Eritrea’s late response ensured the home team could not relax before the final whistle.

Soumah and Barry put Guinea in control

Guinea began with clear intent in front of their home supporters and quickly took control of the contest.

Mohamed Soumah provided the breakthrough, giving the Syli National the platform they needed to push for victory.

Yakhouba Gnagna Barry then extended the advantage, finding the net to put Guinea two goals ahead. At that stage, the hosts appeared to have created enough separation to avoid any serious threat from their opponents.

Eritrea set up a nervous finish

The match took a different turn when Eritrea pulled a goal back. The visitors’ effort reduced the deficit and immediately brought uncertainty into the closing stages.

Guinea were unable to re-establish the control they had shown earlier in the game. Instead, they had to withstand sustained pressure as Eritrea looked for an equaliser.

The final minutes were particularly tense, with the Guinean players required to remain disciplined and committed to protect their slender advantage until the referee ended the match.

The result gives Guinea a home win and three valuable points in their campaign to qualify for CAN 2027. Despite the late scare, Paulo Duarte’s team achieved the main objective and added to their points tally.

The way the match ended also highlighted areas Guinea will need to improve in their next qualifiers. Greater control and concentration will be required if they are to avoid allowing opponents back into games they appear to have under control.

For Paulo Duarte and his players, the victory provides an important boost, but the performance also showed that work remains to be done. Their ability to manage difficult periods and see out matches will remain an important test as the qualification campaign continues.