Guinea-Bissau and Eswatini will kick off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification campaign in Group I on Thursday, with the match set to take place at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro in Bissau. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:00 pm GMT.
Guinea-Bissau, known as Djurtus (African Wild Dogs), last played on June 10, drawing 1-1 with Egypt in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. The team has struggled recently, failing to secure a win in their last six matches, which includes two draws and four consecutive losses.
Guinea-Bissau head coach Luis Boa Morte acknowledged the challenge posed by Eswatini, stating, “Eswatini offers a different type of football, making the opposition’s task as difficult as possible. While they may not be as technically strong, their physicality makes them a tough opponent. We are aiming for a lively group stage and a spot in the next AFCON.”
Eswatini, also known as Sihlangu Semnikati (King’s Shield), comes into the match on the back of a 1-0 defeat to South Africa in the 2024 COSAFA Cup Group A encounter on July 2. Like Guinea-Bissau, Eswatini is winless in their last six games, with three defeats and three draws.
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New Eswatini head coach Zdravko Logarusic expressed enthusiasm about his role, saying, “I am truly thankful for this appointment and eager to drive the team forward. My observations of the team reveal their immense talent. I am ready to bring new ideas and enhance our results. My experience with various national teams in Africa has prepared me well for this role.”
Guinea-Bissau and Eswatini have met twice before, with Guinea-Bissau winning both encounters. Their most recent meeting was a 3-1 victory for Guinea-Bissau in the 2021 AFCON qualifier held at the Mavuso Sports Centre.
