Bafana Bafana's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying rivals Guinea have suffered a significant setback after star striker Serhou Guirassy was ruled out of their upcoming matches against Eritrea through injury.

The Borussia Dortmund forward has been withdrawn from Guinea's squad after medical examinations confirmed a thigh injury that is expected to keep him out of action for between four and six weeks.

Guirassy's absence is a major concern for head coach Paulo Duarte, as the striker remains one of the country's most important attacking players and a key figure in their qualification campaign.

The 30-year-old was particularly influential during the previous international window, scoring the only goal in Guinea's 1-0 victory over Kenya. His goalscoring ability was expected to play an important role as the Syli National seek maximum points from their two encounters with Eritrea.

Guinea have also been hit by the withdrawals of defender Saidou Sow, who is sidelined with a knee injury, and goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla, whose reason for becoming unavailable has not been officially explained.

Ousmane Conde has been called up to replace Sow, while Sekou Salifou Sylla has been brought in as a replacement for the goalkeeper.

Despite the setbacks, Guinea have received a boost with the return of experienced midfielder Amadou Diawara and defender Mouctar Diakhaby to the squad.

The injuries come at a difficult moment for Guinea, who are competing with South Africa and Eritrea for the remaining qualification spot in Group D, with co-hosts Kenya already assured of a place at the 2027 tournament.

Guinea currently trail group leaders Bafana Bafana by three points. With Guirassy unavailable, Duarte faces the challenge of finding an alternative attacking option as his team prepares for the double-header against Eritrea on November 12 and 16.

The results could prove crucial to Guinea's hopes of keeping pace with South Africa ahead of their next meeting.

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