The final round of qualifiers for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Egypt from June 15 to July 13, is rapidly approaching and promises to deliver high drama across the continent. With fourteen national teams already assured of their place at the tournament, the battle for the remaining ten spots is set to reach its climax on this decisive matchday. Among the most compelling storylines is Burundi’s historic quest to qualify for the AFCON finals for the very first time.
In Bujumbura, the Swallows will host Gabon in a match that could define their footballing history. Currently sitting second in their qualification group, Burundi hold a crucial two-point advantage over the Panthers heading into this final encounter. The equation is simple but tense: a draw would be enough for Burundi to secure qualification, while Gabon must win to leapfrog their hosts and book a ticket to Egypt. The stakes could hardly be higher for both sides.
This fixture carries particular emotional weight for Burundian football. Speaking at a press conference relayed by akeza.net, Yussouf Mossi, president of the competitions committee at the Burundi Football Federation, reflected on past disappointments. He recalled the painful memory of 1993, when Burundi narrowly missed out on AFCON qualification after being eliminated by Guinea. More than two decades later, the sense of unfinished business still lingers. “This time, we have a 60% chance of winning this great battle,” Mossi declared, expressing cautious optimism ahead of Saturday’s showdown.
According to Mossi, preparations for the match have been handled with the utmost seriousness, reflecting the historic importance of the occasion. The federation has worked closely with the technical staff to ensure that the team is placed in the best possible conditions. “Everything has been done,” he emphasized, underlining the organizational efforts made in recent weeks. Nearly all the players called up for the decisive match have already joined the squad in Bujumbura, allowing the coaching staff to fine-tune tactical and physical preparations.
One notable arrival is still awaited, however. Star striker Fiston Abdoulrazak, a key figure in Burundi’s qualification campaign, is expected to land in the capital on Wednesday. His presence is eagerly anticipated, as his experience and goal-scoring ability could prove decisive against a Gabonese side that will be pushing hard for victory.
Concerns over player fitness have also been addressed. Mossi reassured supporters that the squad is in excellent physical condition. After undergoing various medical and fitness tests, both the coaching staff and the medical team gave the green light, confirming that the players are fit and ready to rise to the challenge of this crucial encounter.
Beyond the sporting aspect, logistical preparations have also been a priority, with a large turnout expected at the stadium. Acknowledging the venue’s limited capacity, the federation has taken steps to ensure safety and comfort. “We recognize that our stadium is small,” Mossi explained, “which is why we have decided to sell only 9,500 tickets, no more than that.” Additional measures include the installation of seating for 400 spectators in specific areas of the stands, allowing for better ventilation and crowd management.
As Saturday, March 23 approaches, anticipation continues to build in Bujumbura. For Burundi, this match represents more than just a qualification game—it is an opportunity to write a new chapter in the nation’s football history and finally take its place among Africa’s elite on the continental stage.
