Guinea awaits CAF decision with renewed optimism

The Guinean Football Federation (FGF) has expressed confidence as it awaits the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) ruling on its appeal against Tanzania, following allegations of administrative misconduct during the final round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Earlier this week, the FGF confirmed it had received an initial acknowledgment from CAF, stating the governing body had “taken note” of the appeal.

The Guinean authorities are hopeful CAF will uphold the rules and issue a ruling that could lead to sanctions against Tanzania and potentially see Guinea reinstated in the tournament.

A Precedent Fuels Hope

Guinea’s optimism is buoyed by a recent case where the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) successfully appealed against Mauritania for a similar administrative error during the 2023 AFCON qualifiers.

Drawing parallels with this outcome, Guinea remains confident that its arguments will sway the decision in its favor.

“Guinea Is Not Yet Eliminated”

Guinea’s Sports Minister, Keamou Bogola Haba, echoed this optimism in an interview with Africa Guinee.

“For us, until proven otherwise, Guinea is not yet eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in 2025.

We believe that the players have done the essential, and we expect there to be a decision that is favorable to Guinea and to sport,” he stated.

The minister highlighted the clarity of the alleged error, emphasizing its impact on the game.

“The rule of the game is the rule. Guinea has long been the victim of these questions, but what happened here is obvious.

All those who followed the match noticed this change with the return of this defender who was not part of it,” he said.

Tanzania Responds

Tanzania, for its part, has exercised its right of reply, disputing Guinea’s claims.

Both nations now await CAF’s decision, which could have significant implications for the 2025 AFCON.

High Stakes for Both Nations

While Tanzania currently holds its spot in the tournament, Guinea’s appeal keeps its hopes alive.

The stakes are particularly high as a ruling in Guinea’s favor would mark a significant turning point in the qualifiers, reshuffling the group standings and altering the trajectory of both teams.

As CAF deliberates, Guinea remains steadfast in its belief that justice will prevail. For now, the footballing world watches closely, anticipating a decision that could shape the path to the AFCON 2025 in Morocco

Les 3 accusations de la #Guinee contre la Tanzanie (officiel) #football https://t.co/pEOL3rv5I2 pic.twitter.com/cyK5ur9gxz

— Afrik-Foot (@afrikfoot) November 21, 2024