Guinea-Bissau hold Madagascar to maintain top spot in AFCON 2027 qualifying Group L

Guinea-Bissau rescued a point with a late equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Madagascar to remain top of Group L in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Madagascar appeared set for victory after Warren Caddy broke the deadlock in the 59th minute, but Renato Nhaga struck six minutes from time to earn Guinea-Bissau a valuable point away from home.

The result leaves Guinea-Bissau with seven points from their opening three matches, while Madagascar remain third with two points.

Caddy puts Madagascar ahead

The encounter began with few clear-cut opportunities, as both sides struggled to find a breakthrough during a largely uneventful first half.

However, Madagascar improved after the interval and eventually took the lead in the 59th minute through Warren Caddy.

His goal put the hosts in a strong position to claim all three points and boost their chances of qualifying for the 2027 AFCON.

Nhaga rescues a point for Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau refused to surrender and continued pushing for an equaliser as the match approached its closing stages.

Their persistence paid off in the 84th minute when Renato Nhaga found the back of the net to restore parity and secure a 1-1 draw.

The late goal ensured Guinea-Bissau returned home with a valuable point that keeps them at the summit of Group L.

Madagascar face pressure in qualification race

With seven points from three matches, Guinea-Bissau remain top of Group L and are in a strong position in their pursuit of a place at the 2027 AFCON.

Madagascar, meanwhile, have collected just two points from their opening three fixtures and sit third in the group.

They will need a victory in their next match to keep their qualification hopes alive.