In a thrilling encounter of the CAF 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Burundi is set to clash against Gabon at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium this Sunday.
Both teams enter this match buoyed by victories in their respective opening qualifiers and are keen to maintain their winning momentum.
March Preview
Gabon started their qualifying campaign with a stellar 2-1 victory over Kenya’s Harambee Stars at Stade de Franceville.
Despite trailing due to Masoud Juma’s opener, goals from Denis Bouanga and Guelor Kanga secured a turnaround win.
This marked their first victory in five matches across various competitions since March’s AFCON qualifiers.
Facing the challenge ahead, Gabon prepares for an away encounter against Burundi, a team they’ve encountered in five previous fixtures, with four of them ending in draws.
On the other side, Burundi emerged triumphant from a gripping 3-2 battle against Gambia’s Scorpions in Dar es Salaam.
Abedi Bigirimana and Frederic Nsabiyumva’s first-half strikes set the stage for their victory, sealing the result despite Ebrima Colley’s late goal.
Currently, Burundi leads their World Cup qualifying group alongside Gabon, sharing the same points.
Their formidable home form with four consecutive wins indicates their strength in familiar surroundings.
Burundi’s recent form across competitions has been inconsistent, while Gabon seeks to maintain their winning rhythm after a mixed run of performances.
Burundi World Cup Qualifying – Africa form: W
Burundi form (all competitions): L, L, D, W, L, W
Gabon World Cup Qualifying – Africa form: W
Gabon form (all competitions): W, L, L, L, D, W
Team News:
Abedi Bigirimana remains a potent threat for Burundi, having scored in three of his last four matches. Abdallah Sudi, displaying prowess off the bench, may earn a starting spot.
For Gabon, Junior Noubi’s participation depends on recovering from an injury. Denis Bouanga, having netted in his last six matches, emerges as a key player to watch.
Predicted Lineups:
Burundi Possible Starting Lineup:(4-4-2)
Rukundo;
Nduwarugira, Nsabiyumva, Mukombozi;
Aruna, Ndayishimiye, Bigirimana, Nahimana, Omar;
Razak, Hussein
Gabon Possible Starting Lineup:(4-3-3)
Noubi;
Obiang, Appindangoye, Ecuele Manga, Oyono;
Biteghe, Kanga, Lemina;
Bouanga, Allevinah, Babicka
Prediction:
In a series marked by few goals, Gabon is predicted to edge past Burundi in a tight 1-0 encounter, continuing their recent dominance in head-to-head meetings.
