The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reportedly withdrawn approval for Guinea-Bissau’s Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro to host further matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign following concerns over the condition of its playing surface.
The reported decision comes days after the Super Eagles suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau at the Bissau venue on September 29.
According to multiple reports, CAF has also apologised to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the condition of the pitch, which attracted criticism before and during the Group L encounter.
Poor pitch raises safety concerns
The playing surface at the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro was described as uneven and heavily affected by water and poor drainage, with concerns raised over its suitability for a major international fixture.
Members of the Nigerian camp reportedly expressed concerns about the risk of injuries before the match, while the state of the pitch became one of the major talking points surrounding the encounter.
CAF reportedly explained that the condition of the pitch had deteriorated significantly after the stadium was inspected and approved for the qualifier.
Guinea-Bissau had previously been required to play some of its home matches outside the country because of concerns surrounding its facilities, with Morocco used as an alternative venue.
The 24 de Setembro Stadium was subsequently approved following renovation and rehabilitation work.
Nigeria suffered first defeat under Chelle
Despite the difficult playing conditions, Guinea-Bissau produced an impressive performance to defeat Nigeria 3-0.
Franculino Djú opened the scoring in the first half before Mama Baldé doubled the advantage in the second period.
Álvaro Djaló then completed the victory with a stoppage-time goal.
The result handed Guinea-Bissau a second consecutive victory in Group L and inflicted Nigeria’s first defeat of the qualifying campaign.
CAF’s official match report confirms the 3-0 result and Guinea-Bissau’s perfect start to the group.
Nigeria had previously defeated Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo, meaning the Super Eagles remain on three points after two matches, while Guinea-Bissau moved to six points.
Guinea-Bissau deny receiving CAF ban notice
However, there is an important development surrounding the reported stadium ban.
The Guinea-Bissau Football Federation (FFGB) has publicly denied receiving any official notification from CAF suspending or banning the Estádio Nacional 24 de Setembro.
The federation said it had received no decision, report or communication from CAF concerning a suspension of the stadium. It also said it was unaware of any request from CAF to apologise to the NFF.
The FFGB maintained that the stadium had been inspected and approved by CAF and that the Nigeria fixture was played with the approval of the appointed match commissioner and refereeing team.
