AFCON Preview: Heavyweights clash as Algeria and Burkina Faso eye first Group G knockout ticket

Algeria and Burkina Faso meet in a decisive battle for Group G supremacy, with both teams looking to extend unbeaten runs and secure early qualification.

Group G leaders Algeria and Burkina Faso are set for a high-stakes showdown at Stade Prince Moulay Hassan this Sunday evening.

Both nations enter the fixture following impressive opening-day victories, knowing that another three points would virtually guarantee a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations knockout rounds.

However, history suggests a deadlock, as the last three encounters between these two sides have ended in draws.

The Desert Warriors arrive in peak form following a dominant 3-0 victory over Sudan. Legendary captain Riyad Mahrez was the catalyst, netting twice to put Vladimir Petkovic’s side in control.

Algeria is determined to move past the ghosts of the previous two tournaments, where they suffered premature group-stage exits.

With a fully fit squad, Petkovic has the luxury of naming an unchanged side to maintain their current momentum.

Burkina Faso’s path to this fixture was far more dramatic. Despite playing against ten men for nearly half of their opener against Equatorial Guinea, the Stallions fell behind late in the game.

In a stunning stoppage-time reversal, substitute Georgi Minoungou and defender Edmond Tapsoba scored in the 95th and 98th minutes, respectively, to snatch a 2-1 win.

This resilience has placed Brama Traore’s side in a strong position ahead of their toughest group test.

Squad depth will be a key factor in Sunday’s late kickoff. For Algeria, Rayan Ait-Nouri has overcome fitness concerns, while Mahrez continues his pursuit of the national appearance record.

Burkina Faso may handed a starting role to Minoungou following his heroics off the bench.

Both managers have reported no fresh injury concerns, ensuring both nations can field their strongest possible lineups for this pivotal top-of-the-table clash.

Statistically, there is very little to separate the two sides. Algeria remains unbeaten in their last 11 outings, while Burkina Faso has not tasted defeat in their last seven matches.

Given their recent history of competitive stalemates, including a 2-2 thriller in the 2023 edition, analysts are predicting another closely fought contest.

A draw would likely satisfy both camps, keeping them both on track for qualification heading into the final matchday.