Guinea’s preparations for their vital 2026 World Cup qualifier against Algeria have been thrown into turmoil following the dismissal of head coach Michel Dussuyer, just three months before the match.
Dussuyer, who took charge of the Syli National in September 2024, was relieved of his duties over the weekend by the Guinean Football Federation.
The timing of the decision has raised eyebrows across African football, given its proximity to a decisive fixture against Group G leaders Algeria in the eighth round of the qualifiers.
While no replacement has yet been confirmed, the Federation’s criteria for the incoming coach have stirred concern among supporters and observers alike.
According to domestic reports, qualification for the 2026 World Cup will not be a requirement for the new manager—an omission many see as a sign that Guinea has already lowered its expectations.
“From what we understand, the focus is now on reaching the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations,” one source close to the Federation told local media. The pivot in priorities reflects not only a strategic shift but also the financial strain currently gripping the Federation.
Earlier this year, Guinea was forced to cancel planned friendlies against Tunisia and Niger due to budget constraints.
The Ministry of Sports has since urged the football body to secure alternative funding sources to sustain its competitive calendar.
This economic fragility has played a direct role in the recruitment process for a new coach.
The advertised salary stands at $360,000 annually—an amount unlikely to attract a high-profile candidate.
The upheaval comes at a critical juncture for Guinea, whose hopes of securing a first-ever World Cup appearance are rapidly diminishing.
The situation offers a potential advantage to Algeria, coached by Vladimir Petkovic, who will be wary of a repeat of the 2-1 defeat suffered against Guinea in the third round of the campaign.
Despite the instability in the Guinean camp, Petkovic will remain cautious. “We’ve seen how dangerous they can be—even in challenging circumstances,” one Algerian analyst noted, referencing their earlier win over the Fennecs.
Guinea, now lacking a head coach, a clear qualification strategy, and the financial stability to plan long-term, appear increasingly vulnerable ahead of September’s showdown.
Yet, for all the current dysfunction, dismissing the Syli National’s competitive spirit outright could prove premature.
