Equatorial Guinea delivered a commanding performance on Thursday, defeating Guinea-Bissau 4-2 in their second AFCON Group A match at Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara.
This victory positions Equatorial Guinea strongly for a spot in the knockout stages, while Guinea-Bissau’s prospects are now significantly challenged. The outcome also intensifies the pressure on the Super Eagles as they prepare to face the hosts, Cote d’Ivoire.
Guinea-Bissau began energetically, with Mama Balde testing Equatorial Guinea goalkeeper Jesus Owono early on. However, Equatorial Guinea seized the lead through Emilio Nsue in the 21st minute, assisted by Pablo Ganet. Guinea-Bissau quickly equalized with an own goal by Esteban Orozco Fernandez, resulting in a 1-1 halftime score.
In the second half, Equatorial Guinea dominated, with Jose Miranda scoring immediately after the break and two additional goals from Nsue in the 51st and 61st minutes. Guinea-Bissau managed a late consolation goal, but it was not enough to alter the match’s outcome.
Equatorial Guinea’s captain, Emilio Nsue, was the standout performer and was rightfully named the TotalEnergies Man of the Match for his two goals and exceptional display, becoming the first player to score a hat-trick at AFCON 2023.
As a result of this victory, Equatorial Guinea leads Group A with four points from two matches, while Guinea-Bissau occupies the bottom spot with no points. In the upcoming matches, Equatorial Guinea will face Cote d’Ivoire, and Guinea-Bissau will take on Nigeria’s Super Eagles on Monday.