Burundi Names Squad for 2015 AFCON Preliminaries as Premier League Duo Receive First Call-Ups
Burundi has announced its squad for the upcoming 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) preliminary round, set to begin next weekend with the first leg of their tie against Botswana. The fixture marks the start of the qualification journey, with Burundi also closely monitoring the Central African Republic vs. Guinea-Bissau match — the outcome of which could influence the next stage of the competition.
In a significant development for the national team, two English Premier League players have received their first international call-ups. Midfielder Gaël Bigirimana of Newcastle United and striker Saido Berahino of West Bromwich Albion have been named in the 19-man squad. Berahino, a product of England’s youth system, is expected to lead the line for a youthful and largely inexperienced Burundian side.
The squad, announced by national selectors, features a mix of domestic and overseas-based players. The team is anchored by goalkeeper Jeff Nzokira and includes experienced defenders like Valery Nahayo and Karim Nizigiyimana. In midfield, the presence of Papy Faty and Saidi Ntibazonkiza adds valuable experience, while the attacking line is bolstered by the likes of Selemani Ndikumana and Didier Kavumbagu alongside Berahino.
Should Burundi progress through the two-legged preliminary round, they will be drawn into a formidable Group G alongside Tunisia, Egypt, and Senegal — three giants of African football.
Full Squad:
Goalkeeper:
– Jeff Nzokira
Defenders:
– David Habarugira
– Filose Irakoze
– Frédéric Nsabiyumva
– Gilbert Kaze
– Karim Nizigiyimana
– Valery Nahayo
Midfielders:
– Cédric Amissi
– Christophe Nduwarugira
– Fuadi Ndayisenga
– Gaël Bigirimana
– Papy Faty
– Pierre Kwizera
– Saidi Ntibazonkiza
Forwards:
– Didier Kavumbagu
– Johane Nizeyimana
– Saido Berahino
– Sélemani Ndikumana
– Tambwe Amissi
With their eyes on an historic AFCON qualification, Burundi will hope that the injection of Premier League talent and youthful energy can deliver results on the continental stage.
