Guinea’s squad announcement for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers is highly anticipated as head coach Michel Dussuyer prepares to finalize his list.
With decisive matches against Somalia and Uganda approaching, the Syli National must secure victories to stay in contention for qualification.
However, injuries, inconsistent playing time, and selection dilemmas present challenges for Dussuyer as he makes his final decisions.
Pressure mounts as Guinea battles for qualification
Currently sitting fourth in their group with six points, Guinea trails behind Algeria, Mozambique, and Botswana.
After failing to secure a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Dussuyer remains under pressure to guide his team to the World Cup.
The upcoming fixtures offer an opportunity for redemption, but player availability remains a pressing concern.
Key players expected to feature
Despite uncertainties, several players remain integral to Guinea’s squad.
Goalkeeper Moussa Camara, a consistent presence between the posts, is expected to retain his spot.
In defense, the reliable duo of Ibrahim Diakité and Ibrahima Conté will provide stability, while Antoine Conté, Saïdou Sow, and Sekou Sylla are also likely to be included.
However, the absence of the injured Issiaga Sylla could prove costly for the backline.
In midfield, Abdoulaye Touré’s experience and Moriba Kourouma’s technical ability make them key figures in Guinea’s setup.
Further up the pitch, in-form striker Serhou Guirassy remains the team’s primary attacking threat.
Despite occasional inconsistencies, Mohamed Bayo and Saliou Bangoura are also expected to be part of the squad, offering additional firepower.
Naby Keita among the major absentees
One of the most significant omissions from the squad is captain Naby Keita.
The influential midfielder, who has struggled with injuries for much of the past year, has only recently returned to action with Ferencváros.
Despite hopes of a comeback, Keita has opted to prioritize his recovery, with a return more likely in June rather than for the March fixtures.
Other potential absentees include Morgan Guilavogui and Julian Jeanvier, both of whom are dealing with injuries and may not be fit in time for selection.
Emerging talents could receive first call-ups
With key players unavailable, Dussuyer may turn to emerging talents to bolster the squad.
In defense, Sahmkou Camara and Ibrahim Breze Fofana have impressed at club level and could earn their first senior call-ups.
In midfield, rising stars Ibrahima Sory Bangoura and Mady Camara continue to develop and could be handed opportunities, while Aguibou Camara’s strong club performances make him a potential inclusion.
In attack, Morlaye Sylla and Salifou Soumah are among the players being monitored.
Saliou Bangoura and Aliou Baldé could also be considered, offering additional attacking options.
Crucial decisions for Dussuyer
With Guinea needing strong results to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive, Dussuyer faces crucial decisions in assembling his squad. Despite some high-profile absences, he can still rely on experienced figures such as Moussa Camara, Ibrahima Conté, and Serhou Guirassy to lead the team.
The blend of established players and promising young talent could prove decisive as Guinea looks to climb the group standings.
As the final squad announcement nears, the Syli National will hope for a strong and competitive lineup capable of delivering in these must-win matches.
