Burundi Make AFCON Debut Against Nigeria in Group B Opener
The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations witnesses a historic moment this Saturday as Burundi’s national team, the Swallows, takes flight for their very first appearance in the continental tournament. Their debut comes against a familiar and formidable opponent: Nigeria’s Super Eagles. The match, set for 5 PM GMT at Alexandria Stadium, promises to be a fascinating clash between an established powerhouse and an ambitious newcomer.
For Nigeria, the objectives are straightforward. The Super Eagles, returning to the AFCON after missing the last two editions, aim to reassert themselves as one of Africa’s dominant teams. With three titles already to their name, including a victory in 2013, coach Gernot Rohr’s squad hopes to add a fourth trophy to the nation’s rich AFCON history. The Nigerian side boasts experience, depth, and individual quality, with players like captain John Obi Mikel, Alex Iwobi, and Odion Ighalo capable of turning the game in their favor.
Burundi, meanwhile, enters the competition with a sense of excitement and determination. The Swallows, coached by Alain Olivier Niyungeko, are seeking to make their mark despite being underdogs. Twenty years after their last competitive encounter with Nigeria during the 2000 AFCON qualifiers, Burundi hopes to use this historic debut to demonstrate their attacking style and team cohesion. Key players like striker Saido Berahino and forward Fiston Abdul Razak will lead the charge for the newcomers, while captain Itamba Mu Rugamba aims to instill belief and discipline across the team.
The stakes are clear: Nigeria must assert their experience and class, while Burundi looks to pull off a memorable upset. The Super Eagles, with a lineup that includes Akpeyi in goal, defenders Shehu, Aina, Troost-Ekong, and Omeruo, and a midfield anchored by Mikel, Ndidi, Chukwueze, Etebo, and Iwobi, are expected to dominate possession and control the tempo. Upfront, striker Paul Onuachu provides a focal point in attack.
Burundi, for their part, has selected a squad that blends youth and experience. Nahimana Moussa guards the net, while Nsabiyumva, Duhayindavyi, and Ngando form a defensive line ready to absorb Nigerian pressure. Midfielders Bigirimana, Mustafa, Nahimana, and Amissi are tasked with linking defense to attack and providing creativity for forwards Fiston and Berahino. With determination and tactical discipline, Burundi aims to frustrate the Super Eagles and create scoring opportunities on the counter.
This match represents more than just three points in Group B. For Nigeria, it is an opportunity to begin the tournament confidently and build momentum toward a possible title. For Burundi, it is a chance to announce themselves on Africa’s biggest stage and inspire a new generation of players at home. The outcome will set the tone for both teams’ AFCON campaigns.
As kickoff approaches, anticipation is high. Burundi hopes their debut will be remembered as a bold statement, while Nigeria aims to demonstrate why they are among Africa’s elite. The clash between experience and ambition promises to deliver a captivating start to Group B’s action at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Kick-off: 5 PM GMT
Venue: Alexandria Stadium
Nigeria Starting XI: Akpeyi – Shehu, Aina, Troost-Ekong, Omeruo – Mikel, Ndidi, Chukwueze, Etebo, Iwobi – Onuachu
Burundi Starting XI: Nahimana Moussa – Nsabiyumva, Duhayindavyi, Ngando – Bigirimana, Mustafa, Nahimana, Amissi – Fiston, Berahino
