Djibouti's FIFA World Cup qualification (CAF) campaign began with a 0-1 home loss to Guinea-Bissau on November 20, 2023. The match at the El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon Stadium saw the visitors secure a narrow but crucial victory with a second-half goal. Djibouti fought valiantly but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Guinea-Bissau defense. The result was a disappointment for the home fans but a vital away win for Guinea-Bissau as they aim to reach the World Cup for the first time. This match result placed Guinea-Bissau in a promising early position in the group standings, while Djibouti faced the familiar challenge of bouncing back from an opening defeat.