Guinea manager Paulo Duarte dismisses CAF criticism after missing South Africa press conference

Guinea manager Paulo Duarte has defended his decision to miss the pre-match press conference before his side’s Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifier against South Africa, saying: “It is not CAF that pays me.”

Duarte came under scrutiny from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after failing to attend the media briefing ahead of Guinea’s Group B opener against South Africa.

According to football insider Micky Jnr, the Portuguese coach initially claimed he was unwell, but was later seen at the Syli National’s final training session before the match.

The same report said Duarte could be summoned by CAF for failing to meet his media obligations. If the boycott is confirmed, the former Burkina Faso, Gabon and Togo manager could face disciplinary action.

However, Duarte’s response suggested he was not particularly concerned by the prospect of punishment. While addressing the controversy, the coach criticised the short gap between the press conference and the team’s training session.

He also questioned CAF’s authority over him, arguing that the organisation was not his employer.

Guinea began their qualifying campaign with a 2-1 defeat by South Africa at Johannesburg’s Orlando Stadium on Saturday.

South Africa took the lead in the 30th minute, but Guinea levelled through Seydouba Cisse in the 69th minute. The hosts then scored again in the 77th minute to claim victory.

The result leaves Guinea bottom of Group B after the opening round of fixtures. Serhou Guirassy and his team-mates will attempt to respond when they face Kenya on 1 October.