Equatorial Guinea federation ‘surprised’ by Warriors draw, says the result left a ‘bitter taste’

The Football Federation of Equatorial Guinea (FEGUIFUT) has reportedly been left surprised by the Red Devils’ goalless draw against Zimbabwe, with the result seemingly not what the West African nation had anticipated going into the encounter.

The two sides met in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier Group E clash at the Stade Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaoundé, Cameroon on Thursday.

Zimbabwe held the Red Devils to a 0-0 stalemate, producing a result that will be viewed as a positive outcome for the Warriors‘ chances of booking a place at the continental spectacle set to be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, next year.

In a statement released after the game, the FEGUIFUT described the result as a surprise and it also left a bitter taste.

“The Equatorial Guinea National Team added a point at the Ahmadou Ahidjo stadium in Yaundé (Cameroon), after a goalless draw against Zimbabwe,” reads the statement.

“Vincenzo Alberto Annese’s side generated several dangerous chances, but was met with an inspired goalkeeper from the opposing team who prevented the Equatorial Guinea team from celebrating a goal.

Zimbabwe vs Equatorial Guinea in Cameroon. Picture by ZIFA

“There are draws that leave a bitter taste, and the one played this Thursday by the Nzalang Nacional against Zimbabwe is one of them.

“The Equatorial Guinea National Team offered a convincing performance at the Ahmadou Ahidjo stadium in Yaundé, Cameroon, but the lack of accuracy in front of goal prevented them from turning their good work into a victory.

The team, led by Vincenzo Alberto Annese came onto the pitch with personality, intensity, and determination, starring in a match in which they had several chances to take the lead in the first half and in the second half.

“However, when the goal seemed within reach for the Nzalang, the figure of the Zimbabwean goalkeeper appeared, who became one of the main protagonists of the match by thwarting the offensive aspirations of Pablo Ganet and his teammates.“

The two sides meet again in the reverse fixture at the National Sports Stadium on Monday.

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