In a stunning performance on Sunday, Burkina Faso made history by becoming the first team to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The Stallions sealed their qualification with a 2-0 victory over Burundi in a Group L qualifier, capping off an impressive campaign under new coach Brama Traore. The result comes as a significant moment of redemption for the West African side after their disappointing exit in the 2024 AFCON.
The early lead came just five minutes into the game, with striker Mohamed Konate, who currently plays in Saudi Arabia, finding the back of the net. Konate’s goal set the pace for the rest of the match, with Burkina Faso maintaining control over a visibly struggling Burundi side. Konate, a seasoned player who has represented nine clubs in as many years, has been an integral part of the team’s success in the qualifiers.
Adding to the excitement, Ajax forward Bertrand Traore, formerly of Aston Villa, came off the bench in injury time to score a penalty, sealing the game with a 2-0 finish. Traore’s performance was particularly noteworthy, as the 28-year-old winger continues to rebuild his form following a series of injuries that hampered his career in the English Premier League.
This victory was Burkina Faso’s second win against Burundi in just three days, having previously triumphed 4-1 in an earlier round also held in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Both teams have been forced to play their home matches in the Ivorian capital due to the lack of international-standard stadiums in their respective countries. Despite these challenges, Burkina Faso has emerged as the clear leader of Group L, topping the table with 10 points.
The Stallions’ qualification is a testament to their resurgence after a tough start to the year. The 2024 AFCON saw them eliminated in the Round of 16 by Mali, a 2-1 defeat that led to the dismissal of then-coach Hubert Velud. Under the leadership of Brama Traore, Burkina Faso has bounced back, delivering impressive results, including a hard-fought draw against Senegal and key victories over Malawi and Burundi.
As Burkina Faso prepares for their 14th AFCON appearance, their sights are set on surpassing their 2013 achievement, when they finished as runners-up to Nigeria. With a talented squad and renewed confidence, the Stallions will undoubtedly be a team to watch in Morocco next year.
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Meanwhile, Senegal, currently sitting in second place with 7 points, could also secure their place in the tournament if they defeat Malawi in their upcoming match. The final two matchdays of the qualifiers are scheduled for mid-November, where more teams will vie for a spot in Africa’s most prestigious football competition.
While Morocco automatically qualifies as the host nation, they remain active in the qualifiers to maintain match fitness. With Burkina Faso leading the way, the 2025 AFCON is already shaping up to be an exciting and fiercely contested tournament.
