Burundi cruise past Chad in AFCON 2027 qualifier

Burundi took a major step toward the next round of the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers with an emphatic 4-0 away victory over Chad in their preliminary first-leg clash on Friday.

Playing at the Stade Olympique Maréchal Idriss Déby Itno, Burundi wasted no time asserting control, taking the lead in just the sixth minute through Jordi Liongola. The early breakthrough set the tone for a one-sided encounter, with the visitors capitalising on defensive lapses from Chad.

Burundi doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute when Bienvenue Kanakimana found the net, leaving the hosts with a mountain to climb before halftime.

Second-Half Control Seals Victory

Any hopes of a Chad comeback faded after the break, as Burundi continued to dictate proceedings. Abdoul Karim extended the lead in the 63rd minute, effectively putting the tie beyond reach, before Mossi Nduwumwe added a fourth in the 74th minute to complete a commanding performance.

The result gives Burundi a significant advantage heading into the return leg in Bujumbura as they aim to secure a place in the group stage qualifiers for the 2027 tournament, which will be hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Elsewhere, Somalia Held in Goalless Draw

In another preliminary fixture, Somalia were held to a 0-0 draw by Mauritius, leaving their tie finely poised ahead of the second leg.

Race for Group Stage Spots Begins

The preliminary round marks the opening phase of the AFCON 2027 qualification campaign, with 12 of Africa’s lowest-ranked nations competing for six available places in the group stage qualifiers.

With a four-goal cushion, Burundi head into the return leg full of confidence, while Chad face a daunting challenge to overturn the deficit and keep their qualification hopes alive.