World Cup (Q): Guinea extinguish Mozambique’s hopes in Maputo

Abdoul Karim Traoré announced himself as a player to watch, scoring both goals in Guinea’s surprise 2-1 victory at Mozambique in 2026 World Cup qualifying on Thursday.

The Syli National, who were eliminated from contention to qualify despite Thursday’s victory, dragged the Mambas of Mozambique down with them courtesy of a brace from 18-year-old Traoré on his Guinea debut. Traoré headed in from Ousmane Camara’s cross to put the visitors ahead inside the opening ninety seconds.

Mozambique finally gained their composure after a disastrous opening ten minutes that could have seen Guinea extend their lead. The Mambas struck back from a set piece in the 19th minute when star Geny Catamo’s free kick found Sunderland defender Reinildo Mandava for a powerful header that left Guinea goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla with no chance.

But after the halftime break, Guinea continued to play with ambition and it was Traoré who gave his nation’s supporters more reason for excitement. Receiving a pass from Antoine Conte at the edge of the Mozambican penalty area, Traoré maneuvered into a shooting position and his effort was too powerful for Mambas keeper Ernan Siluane who could only parry the ball into the side netting of his goal.

The result means that Uganda, winners in Botswana on Thursday, have now secured second place with Mozambique too far behind the Cranes in the goal difference tiebreaker. Meanwhile, Algeria clinched first place and qualification for the World Cup finals with a 3-0 victory over last place Somalia in Oran.

2026 World Cup Qualifying: Updated Group G Table

1. Algeria- 22 points
2. Uganda- 18 points (GD: +6)
3. Mozambique- 15 points (GD: -4)
4. Guinea- 14 points
5. Botswana- 9 points
6. Somalia- 1 point

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