Guinea-Bissau are setting their sights on reaching the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time ever, according to coach Baciro Cande.
Cande admits it will be difficult for the Djurtus in a “very tough” Group A that contains Ivory Coast, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea. But he remains hopeful of springing a surprise.
“Our goal is to finally get past the first round,” Cande stated in an interview with CAF after arriving in Ivory Coast for the tournament.
“It is true that our group is very tough with opponents like Ivory Coast, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, but anything is possible in football, anything is possible,” he reiterated.
Guinea-Bissau are making their fourth AFCON appearance. Despite facing illustrious opponents, Cande is drawing confidence from past competitive performances.
“I am used to it; the first competition I participated in, we played the opening match against Gabon, and we drew (1-1). I know Ivory Coast is stronger than Gabon, but Guinea-Bissau will do its job, slowly,” said the coach.
Progression from the group would mark a significant milestone for the West African nation. Cande is urging his players to believe they can upset the more established teams and break new ground.
With a spirited coach at the helm, Guinea-Bissau will need to back themselves to pull off a surprise and achieve their target of reaching the AFCON knockouts for the first time.
