AFCON 2025 - Preview: Algeria vs Burkina Faso

The Fennecs of Algeria and the Stallions of Burkina Faso both have 3 points, but Algeria leads thanks to a better goal difference (+3 vs +1). A victory would propel the winner to 6 points, almost qualified, while a draw would keep the suspense intact before the final day of the matches of the group phase.

Convincing entries, but contrasted
Algeria impressed with their comeback. After two early group stage eliminations. Vladimir Petković’s men dominated Sudan (3-0). Riyad Mahrez, captain and star, shone with a brace and became the best Algerian scorer in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Burkina Faso, under the leadership of Brama Traoré, snatched a crazy victory against Equatorial Guinea (2-1). Down in the 85th minute despite a power play, the Burkina Faso Stallions turned the situation around in extra time thanks to Georgi Minoungou and Edmond Tapsoba. This success illustrates the mind and resilience of a team accustomed to solid performances.

Key players and tactical oppositions
On the Algerian side, everything depends on technique and possession: Riyad Mahrez as an offensive leader, supported by Mohamed Amoura, Baghdad Bounedjah, Ismaël Bennacer and a solid defense with Aïssa Mandi and Ramy Bensebaïni.

Burkina Faso will propose athleticism, rapid transitions, and physical impact. Dango Ouattara and Bertrand Traoré for speed, Edmond Tapsoba as defensive boss, and a combative midfielder with Blati Touré.

It is quite clear that the match will be closed, with few spaces, potentially decided on a set piece or an error.

Balanced history
The history of the matches between Algeria and Burkina Faso is marked by harsh and often indecisive explanations. Out of twenty confrontations (22 official and friendly matches), Algeria holds a slight advantage, but recent matches are very close: 9 wins for Algeria, 7 draws, 6 wins for Burkina Faso. The last match dates back to 2023 and ended in a draw (2-2), which reveals the balance of forces.

Previously, during qualifiers for the 2022 World Cup, the two matches had also ended on parity scores (1-1 and 2-2). Algeria has often been considered a favorite on paper but Burkina Faso are a resilient team, formidable in the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Declaration

For Cyriaque Irié:

 "Algeria is one of the favorites in this competition, but on our side, we are focused on our competition and on our team. In our squad, there is a lot of quality, everyone knows it, and it’s up to us to prepare well for this match. It’s a beautiful team, with very good players. There is even my idol, Riyad Mahrez, who plays there. But we will stay focused to win this match. Frankly, it would be a great pride for me to beat Algeria. I promise that we will give it our all to bring back the victory", 

suggested the right wing of Fribourg (German Bundesliga).

This shock promises to be intense and spectacular: who will take control of group E? Response Sunday evening.