Equatorial Guinea will host Liberia at the Estadio de Bata in the third round of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Both teams have yet to win in the competition and will be eager to get their first victory to keep their qualifying hopes alive.
Match Preview
Equatorial Guinea were unfortunate not to take all three points in their last game against Togo, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Despite leading twice through goals from Luis Asue and Jannick Buyla, a late equalizer from Kodjo Laba denied them the victory. Juan Micha’s team will take confidence from their solid performances but will be looking to tighten up defensively to avoid another late collapse.
Liberia, on the other hand, were comprehensively beaten 3-0 by Algeria in their most recent outing. Mario Marinica’s side struggled to match Algeria’s quality, conceding twice in the first half and a third goal late on. Despite that setback, Liberia had been in decent form earlier this year, and they’ll be hoping to rediscover that against a less formidable opponent in Equatorial Guinea.
Team News
- Equatorial Guinea: Key midfielder Federico Bikoro has been recalled and will likely feature, while forward Emilio Nsue is still serving a six-month suspension. Iban Salvador is expected to lead the attack in Nsue’s absence. The home side will be keen to make use of their home advantage and will rely on their experienced players to deliver.
- Liberia: Goalkeeper Abdulai Koulibaly, who was injured against Algeria, is back in contention, with Tommy Sango likely returning to the bench. Liberia will look to midfielders like Oscar Dorley and forwards Ernest and Swen to lead their attack as they search for their first win.
Possible Lineups
- Equatorial Guinea (4-2-3-1): Owono; Anieboh, Orozco, Akapo, Ndong; Obiang, Bikoro; Buyla, Eneme, Miranda; Salvador
- Liberia (3-5-2): Koulibaly; Sackor, Kamara, Dweh; Kenneh, Chauncy, Dorley, Sangare, Teclar; Ernest, Swen
Prediction
Both teams have struggled to score in recent matches, and this encounter could be a closely contested affair. However, Equatorial Guinea, with the backing of their home fans, are expected to have the edge and could claim a narrow 1-0 victory.
