Burundi's national football team, affectionately known as "Les Hirondelles" (The Swallows), will play two key qualification matches for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations later this month. These fixtures are key for the nation's aspirations to compete on the continental stage. The team is scheduled to face Togo on September 25 in a highly anticipated encounter at Stade de Kégué in Lomé. This away game marks the first of their two significant challenges. Four days later, on September 29, Burundi will host Algeria at Stade Intwari in Bujumbura for their second qualifying fixture. Both encounters are vital for the nation's bid to secure a spot in the prestigious continental tournament, with every point carrying immense weight in their qualification campaign. The team's performance in these matches will set the tone for their journey towards the 2027 AFCON.
Squad Selection Details
The squad selected by coach Mayani consists of twenty-five men, carefully chosen to balance experience with emerging talent. The selection process aimed to identify players who can contribute effectively across all positions, ensuring a strong and versatile team for the upcoming challenges.
Among the goalkeepers, Jonathan Nahimana represents Gicumbi, bringing his skills and experience to the national setup. Onésime Rukundo, a reliable presence between the posts, plays for Police FC. Daniel Hakizimana, a young goalkeeper with promising potential, comes from Vision FC, indicating a focus on nurturing future talent.
The defensive lineup features a blend of international and domestic-based players. Frédéric Nsabiyumva and Emmanuel Swedi, both based in Sweden, provide European experience and tactical awareness. Derrick Mukombozi joins from Fountain Gate, adding strength to the backline, and Omar Moussa from Gorilla contributes his defensive prowess. Christophe Nduwarugira, who plies his trade in Indonesia, offers further international exposure. Akbar Muderi, a defender from Rayon Sport, strengthens the domestic contingent. Claus Niyukuri is included from Norway, bringing a different style of play, and Kevin Icoyitungiye from Aigle Noir completes the defensive selections. These defenders will be key in containing the opposition's attacks and building play from the back.
Midfield and Attackers Named
In midfield, the squad boasts a dynamic mix of playmakers and ball-winners. Yussuf Ndayishimiye has been called up from Nice, where he has been showcasing his talent at a high level. Eldhino Mokono is also included, ready to contribute his energy and vision to the team's engine room. Henry Msanga joins the squad after returning from Libya, bringing recent competitive experience. Saido Ntibazonkiza, described as a symbol of the local championship, is another influential midfielder named, known for his leadership and technical ability. Karim Mpawenimana, who plays in Mozambique, completes the midfield selections, offering another dimension to the team's central play.
The attacking contingent features a diverse group of forwards capable of creating and converting chances. Jean-Claude Girumugisha from Libya and Franck Nduwimana from Kenya are both expected to provide pace and goal-scoring threats. Mossi Nduwumwe, who plays for MC Alger in Algeria, is part of the forward line, bringing experience from a competitive North African league. Mohamed Amissi represents Canada in the squad, adding an international flair to the attack. Asman Ndikumana also features among the attackers, ready to make an impact. Abdallah Sudi, based in Azerbaijan, and Bienvenue Kanakimana, who plays in the Czech Republic, complete the list of forwards for the upcoming qualifiers, offering a variety of attacking options for Mayani.
Key Offensive Talent
Further strengthening the attacking options, Bonfils Caleb Bimenyimana, an attacker currently playing in Syria, has been included in the squad. His presence is expected to add significant firepower and a different attacking dimension to "Les Hirondelles." Another prominent forward named is Cédric Amissi. Amissi is described as an icon of Inter Stars, bringing significant experience and recognition from the domestic league to the national team. His inclusion is expected to provide leadership and offensive prowess for "Les Hirondelles" during the key qualification matches, serving as a key figure in the team's quest for goals and victories. The coaching staff will be relying on these experienced attackers to deliver decisive moments in both the home and away fixtures.