Held to a 1-1 draw by Guinea-Bissau on Thursday in Meknes in Group L matchday 3, Warren Caddy’s Barea, with the forward scoring the opener, have only two points from three games. They must now win every remaining match.
Madagascar had to settle for a draw against Guinea-Bissau on Thursday at the Stade d’Honneur in Meknes (1-1). In the CAN 2027 qualifiers, the Malagasy national team find themselves in a difficult position after three matchdays.
Warren Caddy, the striker, opened the scoring in the 59th minute with a header at the near post. Renato Nhaga, Guinea-Bissau’s forward, equalised in the 84th minute with a right-footed strike. Both teams lined up in a 4-2-3-1, according to Newsmada.
Guinea-Bissau dominate possession
Guinea-Bissau largely dominated possession, with between 59 and 61% of the ball, and completed more than 500 passes at 88% accuracy. Madagascar completed 335 at 78%, according to Newsmada.
The Barea also conceded eight corners to two and registered 14 shots, against 16 for their opponents. They committed 18 fouls and received three yellow cards.
An injury and a costly error
Clément Couturier went off with a muscle injury in the 40th minute, replaced by Johan N’ji. The forced change disrupted Madagascar’s game plan before half-time.
Late in the match, a misjudged piece of goalkeeping by Jordan Guipure cost the Malagasy the equaliser, according to L’Express de Madagascar. The share of the points, which could have been a win in the 84th minute, now leaves the national team in a delicate position.
Nine points to take
With two points from three matches, Madagascar must win all three of their remaining games, meaning nine points are mandatory, according to Newsmada.
Guinea-Bissau, meanwhile, strengthen their first place with 7 points from two wins and this draw. It is their first draw after two straight victories, according to Al Taj News. The two teams will meet again on matchday 4, in a quick double-header.