Sierra Leone staged a second-half comeback to share spoils with Guinea-Bissau in their matchday two 2023 Group A Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in the Guinean capital on Monday.
Both West African nations played to a 2-2 draw, and as a result, Sierra Leone placed third in the group after their two opening games.
The Leone Stars started well but wasted a couple of chances in their exchanges with Amadou Bakayoko, and Musa Kamara missed possible goal opportunities.
Coming into the tie after their 2-1 defeat to Nigeria, the Leone Stars were fully aware that it was a must-win to revive qualifying hopes, but the visitors stood firm to a goalless first half.
In the second half, two quick goals from the Djurtus through Jorge Fernando Barbosa Intima in the 47 and 52nd minutes, respectively – dismantled the host team.
In the 55th-min, Guinea-Bissau was reduced to 10 men as defender Zidane was sent off for a dangerous foul on Bolton Wanderers strike Amadou Bakayoko just outside the box.
In the 72nd minute, Sierra Leone missed a glorious opportunity to reduce the deficit from the spot when Substitute Augustus Kargbo was brought down, but Musa Noah Kamara missed the spot-kick.
Sierra Leone finally rallies a goal in the 77th minute after Augustus Kargbo dribbles his marker from the left wing to score a carpeted shot into the left-hand corner.
The home team completed their comeback through Musa Noah Kamara, who drew parity for the Leone Stars in the 88th-minute.
Sierra Leone coach John Keister made three changes to his side that lost in Nigeria on Thursday.
The draw means Guinea-Bissau are now on four points and occupies second place. Nigeria, who thrashed Sao Tome 10-0 in Morocco Stade d Agadir top Group A.
Guinea-Bissau will be guests to the Super Eagles for their third group game in September this year. Sierra Leone will go up against Sao Tome at home and away.
Connect with us on Twitter @football_sierra, on Facebook/ Instagram, Football Sierra Leone, and the writer Alie Bittar on Twitter @bittar32 Contact bi****@ol*.net
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