Guinea-Bissau and Mozambique will meet for a clutch 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Estadio 24 de Setembro today
Guinea-Bissau come into the match placed at the top of the pool, with eight points from their five matches (level with second-placed Namibia), while Mozambique are third on seven points.
The two teams are very much in the hunt for a place at the 2019 Afcon finals, and there is also a chance that they could both progress.
The Djurtus have the advantage in that a win or draw will guarantee progression, regardless of the result of the concurrent Group K match between Zambia and Namibia in Lusaka.
Mozambique must win to be absolutely sure of qualification. A draw would bring them level with Namibia (if the Brave Warriors lose in Zambia) but the Mambas would then lose out on a head-to-head tie-breaker.
A win for Mozambique combined with a Namibia defeat in Lusaka would see both the Mambas and the Djurtus advance.
Mozambique coach Abel Xavier says his side will look to win and secure Afcon qualification to bring some solace to the people hit hardest by the tropical cyclone Idai, which has devastated the south-east African country.
“The sentiment is one of great unity and cohesion, and the players will do their best to win and pay homage to the people, playing on behalf of the country, Beira and the devastated areas,” said the former Liverpool defender.
When the teams met in their first Group K match in Maputo back in September last year it ended in a 2-2 draw, with the hosts scoring through Zainadine Junior and Reginaldo, while the visitors’ goals were netted by Carlos Embalo and Frederic Mendy.
