Equatorial Guinea scored twice in the first half on Friday to beat São Tomé and Principe 2-0 in Malabo in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying Group H encounter. Emilio Nsue announced his return to international football with a goal. The home side were the dominant force of the encounter but São Tomé can be proud of themselves after an encouraging display.
The visitors showed good defensive character for the opening few minutes but faded away after conceding the first goal. Nsue broke the deadlock in the 15th minute following good work by Iban Salvador Edú on the assist. Nsue was away from international football after he was banned by FIFA citing ineligibility. A minute later Salvador doubled the lead with an exquisite finish.
In the second half, São Tomé demonstrated their growing potential as they came close to halving the deficit through Luis Do Sacramento. Nzalang Nacional were very poor and failed to extend their lead in the second interval.
Equatorial Guinea remain fifth in Group H with six points. São Tomé and Principe are still winless as they occupy the last place.
Group H Table (5 matches played)
Points | |
Tunisia | 13 |
Namibia | 11 |
Liberia | 7 |
Malawi | 6 |
Equatorial Guinea | 6 |
São Tomé and Príncipe | 0 |
The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.
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