Burundi head coach Olivier Niyungeko has officially announced the 23-man squad that will represent the country at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, marking a historic moment as the Swallows prepare to make their debut at the final tournament. The announcement has generated great excitement back home, as Burundi get ready to test themselves on Africa’s biggest football stage for the very first time. Niyungeko has opted for continuity and balance, keeping the core of the team that secured qualification while adding a few carefully selected options to strengthen the group.
All of Burundi’s key figures have been retained, including striker Fiston Abdoul Razak, former England youth international Saïdo Berahino, and dynamic winger Cédric Amissi. These players are expected to form the backbone of the side, bringing experience, attacking threat, and leadership to a squad eager to prove it belongs among the continent’s elite. Their inclusion reflects the coach’s desire to rely on players who have already demonstrated their importance in competitive matches.
Although five players were initially called up for the first time during the broader preparation phase, only one newcomer has made the final cut: Elvis Kamsoba, who plays for Melbourne Victory in Australia. His retention suggests that the technical staff were impressed by his qualities during training and believe he can offer something different in attack. The rest of the squad is largely composed of familiar faces who have grown together over recent years, reinforcing the sense of unity that has been central to Burundi’s rise.
Currently in Doha, Qatar, the Swallows are continuing their preparations with a training camp focused on physical conditioning, tactical organisation, and team cohesion. Their next scheduled test is a friendly match against Algeria, a fixture that will provide a valuable benchmark against one of Africa’s established powers. This match is expected to help Niyungeko fine-tune his systems and give players a taste of the intensity they can expect at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Burundi have been drawn into Group B, where they will face Guinea, Nigeria, and Madagascar. It is a challenging group, featuring Nigeria, one of the tournament’s traditional heavyweights, and Guinea, known for their athleticism and technical quality. Madagascar, meanwhile, have also enjoyed a strong rise in recent years. For the Swallows, every match will be a learning experience, but also an opportunity to showcase their progress and compete without fear.
The selected squad reflects the international spread of Burundian football. The goalkeeping department includes players based in Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia, offering competition and depth. In defense, Niyungeko has chosen a mix of players plying their trade across East Africa, Southern Africa, and Europe, aiming to combine physical strength with tactical discipline. The midfield is anchored by the experience of Gaël Bigirimana, who brings top-level European exposure, alongside energetic and hardworking profiles capable of supporting both defense and attack.
Up front, Burundi will rely heavily on the goals and movement of Saïdo Berahino and Fiston Abdoul Razak, supported by a group of attackers playing in Saudi Arabia, Europe, Australia, and across Africa. Cédric Amissi’s pace and creativity are expected to be crucial, while younger options like Kamsoba offer unpredictability and enthusiasm.
With the squad now confirmed, Burundi’s focus turns fully toward preparation and belief. Making their debut at the Africa Cup of Nations, the Swallows arrive not merely to participate, but to compete, determined to honor their historic qualification and to leave a positive impression on the continental stage.
