Guinea coach Paulo Duarte has announced a 25-man squad for next month’s World Cup qualifying fixtures against Somalia and Algeria, with the list featuring several unexpected inclusions and notable omissions.

The Syli National will face Somalia on 5 September at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, before meeting Algeria on 8 September at Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca, Morocco.

The matches form part of the seventh and eighth rounds of Africa’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, where Guinea’s hopes of progression already look slim.

Duarte, appointed earlier this summer, has recalled goalkeeper Ibrahim Koné, 35, of Boulogne in France, and midfielder Mory Konaté of KV Mechelen.

Koné missed the last four fixtures, while Konaté has not been part of the national set-up since June 2024. Both players are seen as experienced figures who could add balance to a struggling side.

However, the coach has left out several familiar names.

Despite regaining regular playing time at Hungarian club Ferencváros, Naby Keita remains absent.

Duarte explained his decision, saying he wishes to speak with the former Liverpool midfielder before considering a recall.

Ilaix Moriba, who recently completed a transfer, is also missing, as are Mohamed Bayo, currently finalising a move to Lille, and François Kamano, who is without a club.

The Portuguese manager has instead turned to domestic talent and youth.

Two Milo FC players, Aboubacar Bachir Bangoura – nicknamed “Vinicius” – and his teammate Alhassane Bangoura, both standout performers at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), receive their first senior call-ups.

They are joined by Genk’s 21-year-old defensive midfielder Ibrahima Sory Bangoura, who earns a debut after impressive performances in Belgium.

Duarte’s squad still features established internationals, including Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy, Valencia defender Mouctar Diakhaby, captain Issiaga Sylla and midfielder Abdoulaye Touré.

Their presence will be vital as Guinea attempt to steady their campaign after a poor run of results.

Guinea sit fifth in their qualifying group, eight points adrift of leaders Algeria and five behind second-placed Mozambique, leaving their chances of reaching the World Cup all but extinguished with four games to play.

The squad announcement highlights Duarte’s dual approach: leaning on experience while giving opportunities to younger players capable of shaping the team’s future beyond this qualification cycle.

Guinea squad for Somalia and Algeria:
Goalkeepers: Ibrahim Koné, Moussa Camara, Naby Yattara
Defenders: Issiaga Sylla, Mouctar Diakhaby, Julian Jeanvier, Saidou Sow, Ibrahima Conté, Abdoulaye Sylla
Midfielders: Abdoulaye Touré, Mory Konaté, Amadou Diawara, Seydouba Cissé, Ibrahima Sory Bangoura, Alhassane Bangoura
Forwards: Serhou Guirassy, Aboubacar Bachir Bangoura, Aguibou Camara, Morgan Guilavogui, José Kanté, Fodé Camara, Karim Cissé