Guirassy leads Guinea squad as new coach Duarte prepares for first assignment

Newly appointed head coach of the Guinea national team, Paulo Duarte, has named his squad for upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounters against Algeria and Somalia. Duarte included familiar names but left out some notable players.

 

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Serhou Guirassy headlines the squad selection. The Borussia Dortmund striker enjoyed another excellent season for his club (38 goals) and Duarte hopes he can replicate his performances at the national level when the Syli National plays in Kampala and Casablanca in September 2025. France-based midfielder Abdoulaye Toure is also selected for the qualifiers.

Belgium-based midfielder Ibrahima Sory Bangoura retained his place after making his national team debut earlier this year. Duarte opted not to call up Naby Keita and Spain-born midfielder Ilaix Moriba, as they are both set to miss the games. Strikers Mohamed Bayo and Morgan Guilavogui are also notable absentees under Duarte’s reign.

The Portuguese coach’s first assignment will be against Somalia in Kampala. Then Guinea will face group leaders Algeria in Morocco. Guinea are fifth in Group G with seven points, eight behind leaders Algeria.