Burundi get second chance in Burkina Faso clash

Burundi will have another opportunity to pick themselves up in their Afcon qualifier against Burkina Faso at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium on Sunday evening.

Kick-off is at 6pm CAT (SA, GMT+2)

CURRENT FORM

Burundi got their qualification campaign to a decent start, defeating Malawi 3-2 away. They unfortunately were unable to build on that result, losing 1-0 to Senegal four days later.

In the first fixture of this clash the Swallows took the lead early but shocking defending saw the Swallows concede four goals and they ultimately lost out on a share of the points.

After their first three qualifying matches, Burkina Faso are in a strong position to book a spot in the tournament in Morocco. They are leading Group L with a total of seven points.

WHAT WAS SAID

Burkina Faso head coach Brama Traore has made a sensational impact since being appointed in March and spoke about the strength of the team.

We have a conquering team. On the offensive side, we are really brilliant. We score enough goals. We have a very rich squad and that is what made the difference," he said.

Both teams' sporting grounds do not meet the standards required by Fifa, and as a result they have opted to play their “home” fixtures in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

“It is not easy. It is difficult for everyone. If they [the supporters] came here to Abidjan to support the team, it shows their love for the Burkina Faso flag. We will continue to work to put balm in their hearts each time.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Elie Mokono, Burundi - The midfielder scored the winning goal in his team’s qualifying match against Malawi. A force in midfield, Mokono could potentially cause problems for the Burkina defence.

Dango Ouattara, Burkina Faso - The 22-year-old winner netted twice in the team’s last encounter against Burundi and will be hoping his speed and agility get him on the scoresheet once again.

HEAD-TO-HEAD

Burundi have lost all three matches they have ever played against Burkina Faso, conceding nine goals and scoring twice.