Striker Serhou Guirassy scored the only goal as Guinea bounced back from their opening defeat to beat Kenya 1-0, in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Conakry.
The Borussia Dortmund forward struck in the 32nd minute at the 28 September Stadium to give Paulo Duarte’s side their first points in Group D after a 2-1 defeat by South Africa on Matchday One.
The victory moves Guinea into second place with three points, three behind leaders South Africa, who maintained their perfect start with a 5-0 win over Eritrea on Wednesday.
Kenya remain on one point after following their opening 1-1 draw with Eritrea with defeat. The Harambee Stars are already guaranteed a place at the 2027 tournament as co-hosts.
Guinea started strongly and nearly opened the scoring when Guirassy’s free-kick struck the woodwork. Kenya also threatened, but Mohamed Camara denied Micah Obiero in the 10th minute.
The hosts continued to create chances before Guirassy broke the deadlock after 32 minutes, driving forward before beating the Kenyan defence and finding the net.
Kenya goalkeeper Byrne Omondi prevented Guinea from extending their lead before half-time, saving efforts from Abdoul Karim Traoré and Guirassy.
Kenya coach Benni McCarthy introduced Ryan Ogam and Timothy Ouma at the break as his side searched for an equaliser. Ogam came close in the 55th minute, but Camara made another important save.
Despite further attacking changes from McCarthy, Guinea held on to secure their first victory of the campaign.
Guinea now have three points from two matches, while South Africa lead Group D with six points. Eritrea are also on three points.
