Bertrand Traore scored as Burkina Faso secured a 2-0 victory over Burundi, qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Morocco. The match took place in Abidjan, where Mohamed Konate opened the scoring just five minutes in. Traore, now with Ajax after his stint at Aston Villa, came off the bench to convert a penalty in added time. This win follows their impressive 4-1 triumph over Burundi just three days earlier, solidifying Burkina Faso’s position as the first team to qualify for the tournament.
Both qualifiers took place in Ivory Coast, as Burkina Faso and Burundi are among 16 nations unable to play at home due to lacking international-standard stadiums. Burkina Faso has made a remarkable comeback after their disappointing last-16 exit at the 2024 AFCON, where they lost 2-1 to Mali. Following the dismissal of French coach Hubert Velud, Brama Traore has successfully led the team to the 2025 finals, achieving a draw with Senegal, a win over Malawi, and two victories against Burundi. Former champions Senegal can also secure their spot in Morocco next year if they win against Malawi on Tuesday. Currently, Burkina Faso leads with 10 points, followed by Senegal with seven, Burundi with three, and Malawi yet to score.
It will be the 14th AFCON appearance by Burkina Faso, whose best showing was finishing runners-up to Nigeria in South Africa 11 years ago.A further eight qualifiers are scheduled for Monday and 15 for Tuesday. The final two matchdays will be staged between November 11-19.Morocco will be automatic participants at the next AFCON as the host nation, but are involved in the qualifying competition to gain competitive match practice.
