The 2012 Africa Cup of Nations is fast approaching, and those taking part are keen to begin their run in the tournament, with an eye on the ultimate prize.
The 2012 Afcon takes place from 21 January to February 12, and it is to be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
Some teams will be experiencing their first participation at the competition, while others will be aiming to write their names in the record books as Africa’s best when the final takes place at the Stade d’Angondje in Libreville on February 12.
Goal.com introduces you to the 16 teams that will be taking part in this highly-anticipated competition. Here we profile Guinea.
| Previous Appearances: |
1970, 1974, 1976, 1980, 1994, 1998, 2004, 2006, 2008 |
| Best Performance: |
Quarter-finals: 2004, 2006, 2008 |
| HOW THEY QUALIFIED FOR AFCON 2012 |
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GROUP B WINNER Guinea finished top of Group B during the qualifying campaign, edging out giants Nigeria as well as Ethiopia and Madagascar. The Guineans went unbeaten in the process, winning four and drawing two matches. The Syli Nationale defeated Nigeria in Conakry and drew the all-important return clash in Abuja to ensure that the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the finals. |
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Perhaps Dussuyer’s biggest feat to date is the elimination of Nigeria from the tournament in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. The 52-year-old former goalkeeper is relishing his second attempt at the job and will hope that his team takes the confidence gained from qualifying into the main tournament to ensure they get past the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. |
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The Istanbul BB defender has been a consistent performer for his country. After leaving Hull City a season ago to be with his family in France, Zayatte has become an important player for his club in Turkey. His team-mates have great respect for him, and he is a born-leader. |
| ISMAEL BANGOURA |Â Star Player |
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Bangoura has scored 12 goals in 42 appearances for the Syli Nationale, and will be making his second appearance in the Afcon. The Al-Nasr striker has a great deal of experience, having played in the Uefa Champions League for Dynamo Kiev while closing in on 50 caps for his country. |
| SADIO DIALLO |Â Young Talent |
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Twenty-year-old Diallo has a bright future ahead of him with this Guinean side. He scored on his debut against Madagascar in 2010 and looks set to bring youthful flair to his team when they challenge for honours during the tournament. Diallo plays his club football at Bastia in France. |
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Michel Dussuyer favours the traditional 4-4-2 formation, but alternates between the attack-minded 4-3-3 or the more conservative 4-5-1 depending on the opposition he encounters. |
(4-4-2) |