The spotlight turns to Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade this Tuesday as Senegal and Burundi square off in their final match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
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This encounter carries no qualification implications, with Senegal already securing their spot and Burundi mathematically out of the running.
Match Preview
Senegal enters the match buoyed by their 1-0 triumph over Burkina Faso last Thursday, courtesy of Mouhamadou Diarra’s late goal.
This victory elevated the Lions of Teranga to the top of their group, surpassing Burkina Faso on goal difference. A draw against Burundi would be enough for Senegal to retain this position.
Head coach Pape Thiaw is expected to rotate his squad, offering opportunities to fringe players while fielding a side capable of maintaining Senegal’s unbeaten record against Burundi.
The Lions have won all three prior meetings between the teams and are determined to continue this streak. Senegal’s form has been stellar, with a 17-match unbeaten run in regular time since their loss to Algeria in September 2023.
Meanwhile, Burundi’s campaign has been less inspiring. After an opening 3-2 victory over Malawi, Les Hirondelles have failed to win any of their last four matches.
Consecutive losses to Burkina Faso and a goalless draw against Malawi last Thursday sealed their fate, ending hopes of a second AFCON appearance.
Burundi faces an uphill task, especially considering their sole qualifying win came away from home. Their last visit to Senegal in 2015 ended in a 3-1 defeat, and a positive result this time would be a monumental challenge.
Team News
Senegal’s attack is led by the prolific Sadio Mane, who has three goals in this qualifying campaign. Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson and Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye are also likely to feature, alongside Crystal Palace’s Ismaila Sarr.
The midfield and defense may see some changes, but the team retains its formidable depth.
For Burundi, versatile Nice defender Youssouf Ndayishimiye is set to continue in a midfield role, while Pacifique Niyongabire may be replaced by Hussein Shabani in attack.
Possible Lineups
Senegal: E. Mendy; F. Mendy, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Jakobs; P. Sarr, Gueye, Camara; I. Sarr, Ndiaye, Mane; Jackson.
Burundi: Nahimana; Kanamakani, Moussa, Nsabiyumva, Nduwarugira, Liongola; Muderi, Ndayishimiye, Moussa, Girumugisha; Shabani.
Prediction
Even if Senegal opts for a rotated squad, their depth in quality should be enough to secure a comfortable win against a struggling Burundi side. Expect the hosts to cap off their qualifiers with a victory.
