Guinea’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) rest on a pivotal decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), expected on Wednesday, June 11.
The Guinean Football Federation (FGF) has lodged a formal complaint alleging that Tanzania fielded an ineligible player during their 1-0 victory over Guinea on November 19, 2024, in Dar es Salaam.
The contested incident occurred in the 73rd minute when a Tanzanian substitute entered the match wearing jersey number 26.
However, the official match sheet registered this player as number 24, leading to claims of an administrative violation. Guinea contends that this discrepancy constitutes an ineligible player being fielded, as per CAF regulations.
In response, CAF initiated an investigation into the matter. The FGF has expressed confidence that the governing body will uphold the rules and issue a ruling that could lead to sanctions against Tanzania and potentially see Guinea reinstated in the tournament.
The FGF has requested detailed reasoning behind the decision, as stipulated by CAF’s disciplinary code.
Guinea’s Sports Minister, Keamou Bogola Haba, has publicly stated that “until proven otherwise, Guinea is not yet eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco in 2025.
” He emphasized the clarity of the alleged error, asserting its impact on the game’s integrity. The minister highlighted that the rule of the game is the rule, and the situation was evident to all observers.
The outcome of this dispute has significant implications for both teams. A favorable ruling for Guinea could see them qualify for the tournament, while a dismissal of the complaint would confirm Tanzania’s qualification.
As the June 11 deadline approaches, all eyes are on CAF’s decision, which will determine the final composition of the 2025 AFCON participants.
