Madagascar have handed Nigeria’s Super Eagles a potential boost in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after holding Group L leaders Guinea-Bissau to a 1-1 draw on Thursday.
The result presents Nigeria with an opportunity to close the gap at the top of the group when they host Tanzania in their Matchday Three encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Guinea-Bissau appeared on course for another victory after taking the lead through Caddy in the 59th minute. However, Madagascar responded strongly, with Nhaga finding the equaliser in the 84th minute to secure a share of the points.
The draw brings Guinea-Bissau’s winning run to an end after successive victories over Tanzania and Nigeria in their opening two matches.
The Djurtus began their campaign with a 2-0 away victory against Tanzania before producing an emphatic 3-0 home win over the Super Eagles, establishing themselves as early favourites to top Group L.
Thursday’s result takes Guinea-Bissau to seven points from three matches, while Madagascar move to two points after three outings.
Nigeria have opportunity to close the gap
The result has increased the significance of Nigeria’s encounter against Tanzania, with the Super Eagles knowing that victory would move them to six points, just one behind Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria opened their qualifying campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar but suffered a damaging 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau in their second fixture.
That setback placed additional pressure on the Super Eagles ahead of their double-header against Tanzania, particularly with Guinea-Bissau maintaining their early advantage at the top of the standings.
Although Tanzania have already secured automatic qualification for the 2027 AFCON as one of the tournament’s co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, they remain participants in the qualifying competition.
Nigeria will host the Taifa Stars in Uyo before travelling to Zanzibar for the return fixture on November 17.
With Guinea-Bissau dropping points, the Super Eagles have an opportunity to revive their qualification campaign and strengthen their position in the race for a place at the continental tournament.
Group L standings after Thursday’s result
| Position | Team | Played | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Guinea-Bissau | 3 | 7 |
| 2 | Nigeria | 2 | 3 |
| 3 | Madagascar | 3 | 2 |
| 4 | Tanzania | 2 | 1 |
Standings before Nigeria’s Matchday Three fixture against Tanzania.
