Burkina Faso became the first nation to secure their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Stallions defeated Burundi 2-0, sealing a historic qualification that came with two games to spare.
The victory was driven by a commanding team performance, with goals from Kanote and a penalty from Traore, both showcasing Burkina Faso’s attacking prowess. Their composure on the ball, swift counterattacks, and defensive discipline left Burundi with little chance to respond.
Mathematically, on Burkina Faso’s Spot
The qualification scenario adds another layer of satisfaction for the Burkinabe fans. Even if Burundi wins their remaining two matches, they will fall one point short of Burkina Faso’s tally. Malawi, the other contender in the group, would only reach nine points if they win their remaining three games—again, leaving them just one point behind Burkina Faso.
Burkina Faso’s route to qualification included hard-fought wins and disciplined draws, and they now sit comfortably at the top of the group with fixtures against Senegal and Malawi still to come. These matches will offer the team an opportunity to sharpen their preparations for AFCON 2025, since the pressure will be off.
The achievement also serves as a boost for Burkinabe football, as the nation looks to make a deeper run in the competition, having last reached the final in 2013. With talented players like Bertrand Traoré, Edmond Tapsoba, and Gustavo Sangaré leading the charge, the Stallions are poised to make a statement at the tournament in Morocco and to do better than they did in the last edition where they exited in the last 16 stage in Ivory Coast.
What It Means for the Rest in the Group
The loss leaves Burundi and Malawi with a steep challenge to claim the second qualification spot from the group. Senegal, still in the race, will also be fighting for a spot as they face Burkina Faso both at home and away in the final stages of the group campaign.
With their ticket booked, all eyes now turn to the other teams scrambling for their chance to join them in Morocco 2025.
