Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast – Guinea took a massive step towards the AFCON last 16 by defeating tournament debutants Gambia 1-0 thanks to a second half strike from Aguibou Camara.
The Olympiakos midfielder swept home the winner in the 71st minute after being teed up by Morgan Guilavogui. It was enough to give Guinea a vital three points in their second Group F encounter.
The result leaves them second in the group on four points, two points behind reigning champions Senegal who defeated Cameroon 3-1 earlier to clinch their place in the knockout phase. Guinea now just need a draw in their final match against Senegal on Tuesday to advance to the knockouts.
Meanwhile, it’s a damaging loss for Gambia, who were looking to build on their impressive 1-1 draw with Cameroon in their opening match. They sit bottom of the group on just one point ahead of their last match against Tunisia.
Guinea were solid if unspectacular, dominating possession but lacking cutting edge in the final third. But Camara’s goal was enough to get the job done in a game where chances were few and far between.
Manager Kaba Diawara will be satisfied with the gritty performance and look ahead to sealing qualification against Zimbabwe. Guinea are now strong favorites to progress behind group leaders Senegal.
For Gambia, AFCON advancement is now a much tougher task. But they’ve already exceeded expectations at their first ever Cup of Nations and will aim to go out with their heads held high against Tunisia.