Monday, December 16, 2024

Burkina Faso first to qualify for Afcon 2025 finals

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Burkina Faso will return to the Africa Cup of Nations finals after a last-16 exit at the 2023 edition earlier this year [Getty Images]

Burkina Faso became the first side to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following a 2-0 away win against Burundi on Sunday.

The Stallions are guaranteed a top-two finish in Group L after taking 10 points from the first four rounds of matches.

Mohamed Konate gave the West Africans an early lead in neutral Abidjan and a stoppage-time penalty from former Aston Villa forward Bertrand Traore, who now plays for Ajax, sealed the three points.

Burundi staged the game in Ivory Coast because it does not have a stadium fit to host international football.

Burkina Faso, who finished fourth at the 2021 Nations Cup, join hosts Morocco at the 2025 edition of the finals.

Algeria, Angola, DR Congo, Egypt and Ivory Coast could join the Burkinabe and secure a place at the finals by the time the fourth round of qualifiers culminates on Tuesday.

The 2025 Nations Cup is scheduled to begin in 21 December next year, with the final on 18 January 2026.

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