Naby Keita put in a man of the match performance as Guniea saw off a determined Malawi side with a 1-0 victory at the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2021

The Guinea’s Syli Nationale scored the goal in the 36th minute through Issiaga Sylla who finished from José Kanté assist in a match played at Bafoussam Omnisport Stadium.

Despite the loss, Malawi matched Guinea pound for pound in the absence of three-quarters of the senior players such as defender Stanley Sanudi, midfielders Robin Ngalande, Chikoti Chirwa and Charles Petro and striker Frank ‘Gabadinho’ Mhango and head of technical panel Mario Marian Marinica who are in isolation after testing positive for Covid-19.

The Flames consequently created more scoring opportunities than Guinea.

But Guinea captain Naby Keita almost opened the score sheet in the 25th when his header froma corner hit the post.

Guinea got a goal with the first shot on target when Sylla right footed from the left side of the six yard box after some good work from José Kanté.

Malawi continued pressing and captain Limbikani Mzava saw his set pice also parried away for a corner after a foul on Khuda.

Just before the end of the first half Guinea almost got a second goal but thanks to goalkeeper Ernest Kakhobwe’s double save of Aguibou Camara shot and rebound.

The second half was the same story as Flames searched for an equaliser while Guinea did more defending.

The Baroka FC striker almost equalised but his shot from outside the box was blocked after being set up by Muyaba.

Madinga also saw his shot saved by Guinea goalkeeper from a Peter Banda superb pass.

Malawi twice survived a scared later as Mvaza blocked Mohamed Bayo and Mamadou Lamarana Diallo attempt in the box.