On Sunday evening, Burundi will host Burkina Faso in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan. Both teams are keen to secure points as they strive for a spot in the tournament.
Match Preview:
Burundi is participating in their 11th AFCON qualification campaign and has only once reached the main tournament, which was in 2019 when they were eliminated in the group stage. Their qualification started brightly with a 3-2 victory over Malawi, but they suffered a setback with a 1-0 loss to Senegal shortly after. In their recent encounter against Burkina Faso, Burundi took an early lead through Bienvenue Kanakimana but succumbed to a 4-1 defeat after conceding three goals in quick succession. Despite the loss, Burundi displayed some attacking potential, registering more shots than their opponents, indicating they can be competitive.
Conversely, Burkina Faso has been a consistent presence in the AFCON, missing out on only one of the last eight tournaments. The Stallions had a successful tournament in Ivory Coast earlier this year, reaching the round of 16. In the qualifying campaign, they currently lead their group with seven points and a +5 goal difference, making them strong favorites for this matchup. Under head coach Brama Traore, Burkina Faso has shown attacking prowess, scoring in every match since his appointment and ranking second for goals scored in the qualifiers, trailing only Algeria.
Team News:
Burundi:
Burundi’s coach, Etienne Ndayiragije, made a notable change during their last match, substituting goalkeeper Matteo Nkurunziza at halftime for Jonathan Nahimana, who is expected to start this time. After sustaining a knock, Kanakimana may be replaced by Richard Bazombwa Kirongozi in the starting XI. The team will look to strengthen their defense and capitalize on their attacking opportunities.
Possible Burundi Starting Lineup:
Nahimana; Muderi, Manirakoze, Bukuru, Musore; Mossi, Madjaliwa, Eldhino; Shabani, Kirongozi, Girumugisha
Burkina Faso:
Burkina Faso is likely to stick with the lineup that has served them well, with Benfica’s Issa Kabore expected to anchor the defense after impressing with two assists in their last match. Ajax’s Bertrand Traore will return to the attack, supported by Dango Ouattara, who netted a brace in their previous encounter.
Possible Burkina Faso Starting Lineup:
F. Ouedraogo; Kabore, Dayo, Tapsoba, M. Ouedraogo; Badolo, Banse, Toure; B. Traore, L. Traore, Ouattara
Prediction:
While Burundi showed some initial promise by taking an early lead against Burkina Faso in their last meeting, the Stallions quickly regained control and demonstrated their superior quality. With their current form and attacking depth, Burkina Faso is expected to secure another comfortable victory against Burundi.
Prediction: Burundi 1-3 Burkina Faso
This match is likely to see Burkina Faso maintain their strong form in the qualifiers, capitalizing on their experience and attacking talent.
