Guinea dominates Guinea-Bissau to edge closer to TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 qualification

Guinea took a commanding step toward qualifying for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a resounding 4-1 victory over Guinea-Bissau in the first leg of their second-round qualifier on Friday.

A brace by Mohamed Bangoura helped the dominant performance from the local Syli National at home set the tone for the tie, leaving Guinea-Bissau with a mountain to climb in the return leg in Bissau on December 28.

The hosts wasted no time asserting their dominance. Kabinet Kouyaté opened the scoring in the 26th minute, capitalizing on Guinea's early attacking momentum.

But just before the break, the visitors restored parity with a surpise strike by Enio Wilquine Bidane.

Guinea-Bissau’s defence struggled to cope with Guinea’s relentless pressure, and Bangoura restored their lead just eight minutes into the second half.

Ousmane Dramé extended the advantage in the 64th minute, slotting home a clinical finish to put the game firmly in Guinea's control.

The highlight of the match came in the 80th minute when Bangoura delivered a stunning fourth goal, sealing an emphatic victory.

Despite a spirited effort, Guinea-Bissau's consolation was their only response, after scoring just before halftime. It proved too little to counter Guinea's dominance.

With a three-goal cushion, Guinea heads into the second leg with confidence.

However, the team will be wary of Guinea-Bissau’s potential fightback on home soil, where the Djurtus will have the backing of their fans to spur them on.