Burkina Faso and Burundi square off on Thursday evening at Stade du 4 Aout in a crucial Round Three match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Both teams are coming into the fixture with mixed results, as Burkina Faso recently secured a dominant win over Malawi, while Burundi narrowly lost to Senegal.
Match Preview
Burkina Faso head into the game riding high after an impressive 3-1 victory over Malawi in their last match. Lassina Traore’s first-half brace set the tone for the win, while Hassane Bande sealed the victory with a penalty. The win marked a positive turnaround under manager Brahima Traore, who took over following a disappointing AFCON 2024 campaign that ended with a last-16 exit to Mali.
The home side is looking to build on this momentum as they edge closer to securing their place in next year’s Africa Cup of Nations. A win on Thursday would put them within touching distance of qualification, and Burkina Faso is expected to field a strong lineup to push for a critical victory.
On the other hand, Burundi fought hard but fell 1-0 to Senegal in their last outing. Ismaila Sarr’s late penalty was enough to hand the Burundians their first competitive defeat of the year. Despite the loss, Burundi have enjoyed solid form on the road recently, securing back-to-back away wins and showing that they can compete with tougher opposition.
Burundi will be aiming to get their AFCON qualifying campaign back on track as they look to upset Burkina Faso on their home turf.
Team News
Burkina Faso:
Lassina Traore, who has struggled for goals at club level this season, is expected to lead the line for the hosts. He will be supported by Bertrand Traore and Hassane Bande. Bournemouth winger Dango Ouattara is also likely to feature, coming off a good run of form after scoring for his club recently. Mohamed Konate, who picked up an injury in the last match, may be a doubt for this game.
Burundi:
Bienvenue Kanakimana, who scored for his club Jablonec over the weekend, will be key for Burundi’s attack. Veteran striker Shabani Hussein is expected to return to the starting lineup after being benched in their loss to Senegal. Burundi will rely on their core players, including Abedi Bigirimana and Eldinho, to trouble the home side.
Possible Lineups
Burkina Faso:
– Koffi; Ouedraogo, Tapsoba, Djiga, Kabore; Simpore, Badolo, Banse; Bande, L. Traore, B. Traore
Burundi:
– Nkurunziza; Musore, Nsabiyumva, Ndayishimiye, Muderi; Kanakimana, Eldinho, Msanga, Bigirimana, Liongola; Hussein
While Burundi have shown that they are capable of pulling off upsets on the road, Burkina Faso’s recent form and home advantage make them favorites. The hosts are likely to edge out their opponents in a closely contested match.
Stay tuned to softfootball.com for more AFCON qualifying updates and coverage.
