AFCON2021: Guinea-Bissau will fight to beat Nigeria, says Candé

Head Coach of Guinea-Bissau’s national team, Baciro Candé says his team will “fight for our lives” against Nigeria when both teams meet at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON2021) on Wednesday.

The Wild Dogs of Guinea-Bissau will face their more illustrious West African opponents Nigeria in their final group game in Garoua on Wednesday night knowing that only a win will suffice for them.

Head coach Candé who will be in the dugout for the first time in the competition after recovering from Covid-19 admits the strengths of the Nigerians but insists they must do a job for themselves.

“We need the result to keep us in the competition. We know that the Nigerian team is very strong but we will fight for our lives to remain in the competition.

“We know how powerful our opponents are but even at that, we still believe in ourselves and we know tomorrow will not be easy but we’re going to fight,” says Candé.

Goalkeeper and captain Jonas Mendes states his belief in his teammates’ ability to overcome what he thinks will be a difficult moment for them on Wednesday night.

“We know that the opponent is strong, but we trust in ourselves and nothing is easy.

“We will make every effort and it is important to get the first victory and we hope to achieve it. The last match was difficult for us, but we are professional players who know how to overcome difficult moments and prepare for what is to come, especially as we strive to make our country and our fans happy.”

Wednesday’s game will hold at Stade Omnisports Roumdé Adjia in Garoua starting from 8pm local time. Guinea-Bissau must record their first ever win in AFCON history if they hope to advance to the round of 16.

Fisayo Dairo, reporting from Garoua