2027 AFCON qualifiers: CAF suspends Bissau’s Estádio 24 de Setembro after criticism of the pitch

Bissau’s Estádio 24 de Setembro is unlikely to host Guinea-Bissau’s next home matches in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. CAF has reportedly withdrawn its approval after widespread criticism of the state of the pitch during the Djurtus’ 3-0 win over Nigeria.

The September 29 match put the Bissau-Guinean pitch at the centre of the debate. Even before kick-off, concerns had emerged over the quality of the surface. Nigeria coach Éric Chelle had notably expressed his reservations after the Super Eagles’ training session.

After the match, the Nigerian coach returned to the playing conditions. He described the pitch as “very, very bad”, while refusing to use its condition as an excuse for his team’s defeat.

The criticism was not limited to the Nigerian camp. Several reports also mention concerns raised in Guinea-Bissau about the state of the pitch and the risk of injuries.

Read also: 2027 AFCON qualifiers: Incredible Guinea-Bissau defy the odds

CAF acknowledges approval-related problems

According to reports published on Monday, CAF reportedly apologised to the Nigerian Football Federation. The Confederation also reportedly acknowledged that the pitch was not in the same condition during its inspection and the stadium’s approval.

This situation comes as the difficulties affecting Guinea-Bissau’s sports infrastructure were already known. Guinea-Bissau had notably considered playing some of its home matches abroad because of the problems encountered with its facilities.

The Estádio 24 de Setembro had ultimately been authorised to host the match against Nigeria after work was carried out. However, the quality of the pitch deteriorated significantly, particularly amid heavy rain.

Following the match, CAF reportedly decided to withdraw the stadium’s authorisation for Guinea-Bissau’s next 2027 AFCON qualifying matches. Guinea-Bissau will therefore have to find another venue that meets the Confederation’s requirements.

The Djurtus will have to play their next matches elsewhere

The decision comes as Guinea-Bissau had made an excellent start to its campaign. The Djurtus first beat Tanzania 2-0 before defeating Nigeria 3-0.

With six points after two matchdays, the Bissau-Guinean national team occupies a favourable position in its group. It will now have to resolve the issue of its stadium quickly before its next home fixtures.

The suspension of the Estádio 24 de Setembro above all highlights the conditions under which its approval had been maintained despite the problems already identified with the pitch.

Nouya M'toama

Editorfr, en

Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations