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The Guinean Football Federation (FGF) has issued a response to comments made by national team striker Serhou Guirassy, who voiced concerns over the organization’s management following Guinea’s 1-0 defeat to Tanzania.
The loss significantly jeopardised Guinea’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with hopes now hinging on an appeal lodged with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding the eligibility of a Tanzanian player.
Guirassy, a standout performer for Guinea and Borussia Dortmund, aired frustrations over the federation’s handling of critical issues, including the lack of standard stadiums in Guinea, which forces the national team to play its home matches on foreign soil.
While not explicitly naming FGF President Bouba Sampil, Guirassy’s remarks reignited long-standing grievances previously raised by players such as Ilaix Moriba.
FGF’s Official Response
In a statement released on Tuesday, the FGF confirmed it had filed an appeal with CAF concerning the Tanzanian player’s eligibility.
The federation also acknowledged Guirassy’s concerns and outlined its commitment to improving Guinea’s football infrastructure.
“The Guinean Football Federation will support the Government in any initiative aimed at accelerating the renovation and approval programme for the General Lansana Conté Stadium in Nongo and the 28 September Stadium in Conakry,” read the statement.
The federation reassured Guirassy and the public that steps are being taken to meet international standards, citing efforts to enhance the country’s main sports venues as a priority.
Infrastructure Delays
Guinea’s stadium woes are not new. Earlier this year, a Moroccan delegation, including an advisor to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) and an engineer from Morocco’s National Agency for Public Equipment, visited Guinea to assess renovation needs for the General Lansana Conté Stadium.
This initiative was part of a broader partnership between the two nations aimed at delivering improved facilities in time for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
However, significant delays have derailed these efforts, casting doubt over the completion of renovations within the intended timeframe.
Call for Urgent Action
Guirassy’s pointed criticism reflects broader frustration within Guinea’s football community over the state of the sport’s governance.
While the FGF’s statement expressed solidarity and a commitment to addressing issues, it underscores the urgency for meaningful progress to align Guinea’s infrastructure and management with international expectations.
As Guinea awaits CAF’s decision on its appeal, the FGF’s ability to follow through on its promises will be closely scrutinized, both by players like Guirassy and by the nation’s footballing supporters.
Communiqué relatif à la réclamation de la FGF à l’issue du match Tanzanie – Guinée#FGF I #AFCONQ2025 I #CAF https://t.co/AFPmLqgx8w
— Fédération Guinéenne de Football (@fgfofficiel) November 21, 2024
