Paulo Duarte calls up three new faces as Guinea name squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Guinea coach Paulo Duarte has unveiled a 25-man squad for the decisive rounds of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, handing first-time call-ups to three promising players, including 18-year-old striker Abdoul Karim Traoré.

The OH Louvain forward, who has made an impressive start to the season in Belgium, headlines the list of newcomers.

His selection is seen as a reward for consistent performances at club level and marks the beginning of his international career with the Syli National.

Joining him is 24-year-old Lamine Diaby-Fadiga, a forward currently playing in Poland with Rakow Czestochowa.

The former French youth international has opted to represent Guinea at senior level, adding depth and versatility to the attacking department.

The third debutant is Jocelyn Janneh, a 22-year-old midfielder with Bastia in France.

Despite being eligible for Sierra Leone, Janneh has chosen to commit his international future to Guinea.

Duarte’s men face a critical double-header during the October international window.

The Syli will take on Mozambique on 9 October before hosting Botswana on 14 October.

With qualification still in the balance, the Portuguese coach is counting on both experience and fresh energy to carry his side into the next stage.

Explaining his selections, Duarte emphasised the need to balance continuity with opportunity.

The inclusion of young talents alongside seasoned internationals such as Mouctar Diakhaby and Serhou Guirassy reflects his intent to strengthen the team while preparing for the future.

The squad announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Guinea, who remain in contention for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.

Victories in the upcoming fixtures are essential if the Syli National are to progress.

Full Guinea squad for October fixtures:

Goalkeepers: Ousmane Camara, Soumaïla Sylla, Moussa Camara
Defenders: Madiou Keïta, Mouctar Diakhaby, Antoine Conté, Mohamed Soumah, Dembo Sylla, Sékou Sylla, Issiaga Sylla
Midfielders: Ibrahim Camara, Alhassane Bangoura, Mory Konaté, Jocelyn Janneh, Abdoulaye Touré, Morlaye Sylla, Seydouba Cissé
Forwards: Yadaly Diaby, Ousmane Camara, Salifou Soumah, Aliou Baldé, Bachir Bangoura, Abdoul Karim Traoré, Lamine Diaby-Fadiga, Serhou Guirassy

With decisive fixtures looming, Duarte’s blend of youthful ambition and established quality will be tested as Guinea bid to reach the next stage of World Cup qualification.