Guinea-Bissau have called on their supporters to turn out in large numbers and rally behind the Djurtus as the countdown continues to Tuesday’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The hosts are hoping to make home advantage count at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro, where Emiliano Té’s men will attempt to build on their impressive start to the qualifying campaign.
The appeal for strong home support comes after the Djurtus completed their final preparations in Bissau, with Té using the last training session at the match venue to fine-tune his strategy for the three-time African champions.
Confidence is high following Guinea-Bissau’s 2-0 away victory over Tanzania in their Group L opener, with Franculino Djú and captain Mama Baldé getting the goals.
Nigeria also started with maximum points after a 2-1 victory over Madagascar, leaving the two sides separated only by goal difference ahead of their meeting.
Local media have intensified the build-up, portraying the fixture as an opportunity for Guinea-Bissau to take outright control of Group L.
The Djurtus are now counting on their supporters to provide an intimidating atmosphere and give the players an additional lift against a Nigerian side packed with established stars.
Guinea-Bissau have reasons to believe another upset is possible.
Baldé, who scored against Tanzania, famously grabbed the winner when the Djurtus shocked Nigeria 1-0 in Abuja during the 2023 AFCON qualifying campaign.
Head coach Té has also insisted his players will not be intimidated by Nigeria’s reputation, despite describing the Super Eagles as one of African football’s reference teams.
With preparations virtually completed, attention is increasingly shifting from the training pitch to the stands.
For Guinea-Bissau, the message to the supporters is clear: fill the stadium, get behind the Djurtus and help turn home advantage into three points.
As kickoff draws closer, Bissau is preparing not only for a football match but for another potentially decisive battle between two sides determined to take early control of the race to AFCON 2027.
