AFCON 2019: Nigeria wary of Burundi’s major shock

A much-fancied Nigeria side begin their Africa Cup of Nations campaign tomorrow with a match against tournament debutants Burundi at the Alexandria Stadium.

Experienced boss Gernot Rohr, who has managed four African sides over the last nine years, has assembled a talented group that looks capable of challenging the likes of Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana and hosts Egypt.

Nigeria failed to impress during their pre-tournament friendlies as they played out a goalless draw with rank outsiders Zimbabwe and then lost 1-0 to Senegal last weekend.

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However, up against a side 89 places below them in the latest FIFA rankings in their opening fixture, anything other than victory for the Super Eagles will be considered a major shock.

Burundi are competing in a major tournament for the first time ever after finishing above Gabon in qualifying with 10 points from their six group matches.

Fiston Abdul Razak and Cedric Amissi are their biggest goal threats after scoring nine of their side’s 11 goals during qualifying.

Saido Berahino is arguably the most well-known player in the Swallows’ squad. The former Premier League attacker has the opportunity to make himself a hero for his country in what is his first major international tournament.