Burundi vs Chad - Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification

Season-defining implications hang over this Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification clash at the home ground, where Burundi host Chad on March 31, 2026 knowing the result could shape the run-in for both clubs. O'Neill made five changes for Celtic's midweek win at St Johnstone as he rested some key players ahead of Sunday's clash.

Both Burundi and Chad will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification. Burundi will be keen to seize the initiative and build some momentum on home soil. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Michael Carrick has spoken on why Marcus Rashford did not feature for Manchester United in the club's most recent pre-season outing.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Burundi will look to impose their style on home soil, while Chad are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. The Germany club were said to be looking for an out-and-out striker to allow Harry Kane to play a deeper role, and made an approach for Sesko in 2024.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. It was all one-way traffic in the first half for Andoni Iraola's side as Luke Chambers and the returning Florian Wirtz put Liverpool into a two-goal lead.

With the sides closely matched, the outcome may well hinge on which team takes its chances on the day. With the sides so closely matched, a 1-1 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. The ramifications of this result could ripple through the Africa Cup of Nations - Qualification standings for weeks to come, regardless of who comes out on top. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".