Burundi will make their first ever Africa Cup of Nations appearance in Egypt this summer following a 1-1 home draw against Gabon at the Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium, Bujumbura on Saturday, Completesports.com reports.
The hosts who needed just a draw to book a ticket to Egypt 2019 opened scoring through Cedric Amissi 14 minutes from time.
Gabon, who paraded Arsenal forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for the entire duration of the game got a late lifeline when Omar Ngando scored an own goal but they were unable to find the winner.
Saido Berahino, who once represented England a the youth level before switching allegiance to Burundi played a key role for the Swallows in the game.
Burundi finished in second position in Group C behind the Eagles of Mali with 10 points from six games.
Gabon ended the qualifiers in third position with eight points from six games.
Burundi join Madagascar as the other country that will make their first AFCON appearance at Egypt 2019.
By Adeboye Amosu
2 Comments
Am impressed
Wow! The minors are waking up from their slumber to be great contenders.
Kenya, Madagascar, Zimbabwe,Uganda, Mauritania, Burundi, Angola. I say congrats and welcome to AFCON in Egypt come June.
My heart goes to Zambia for not making it to Egypt.