The Stallions have pipped the Super Eagles to qualification for the Morocco 2025 AFCON tournament
Burkina Faso have become the first team to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, joining hosts Morocco in the 24-team tournament.
Their 2-0 victory over Burundi on Sunday sealed their place in the finals, showing just how it is done while other teams, including Nigeria's Super Eagles, continue to battle for qualification.
Burkina Faso's dominant display seals AFCON berth
The Burkinabe’s qualification came after a solid performance in Group L, where they beat Burundi 2-0 thanks to goals from Mohamed Konate and Bertrand Traore.
The win brought Burkina Faso to 10 points from four games, guaranteeing they would finish in the top two of their group and qualify for AFCON 2025.
Former champions Senegal sit in second place in the group with seven points, and a win in their next match against Malawi will see them through as well.
Burundi, meanwhile, remain on three points, with Malawi yet to pick up any points from three games, with both sides unlikely to reach the 2025 tournament.
With their impressive run, the Burkinabe have set the bar for other teams still in the race, including bigger nations like Nigeria.
Super Eagles' path to qualification
While Burkina Faso are already booking their tickets to Morocco, Nigeria’s Super Eagles are hoping to follow suit when they face Libya on October 15 in Benghazi.
The Super Eagles secured a 1-0 win in the first leg of the tie at home in Uyo, thanks to a late goal from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Another victory in the return leg would see Nigeria reach 10 points and guarantee them a top-two finish in Group D, securing their qualification for the 2025 AFCON.
Nigeria’s impressive squad will be looking to match Burkina Faso’s feat and confirm their spot in the finals. However, with pressure mounting, the Super Eagles will need to deliver a strong performance to avoid any slip-ups and ensure their place in next year’s tournament.