Central African Republic - Burkina Faso

Central African Republic look to find their footing as they host Burkina Faso on 28 September 2026 for matchday 2 of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification group stage. The home side enters this contest following a difficult 3-1 defeat against Mauritania, a result that highlights the defensive adjustments needed to compete at this level. Their ability to disrupt the opposition will be tested as they aim to replicate the tactical discipline they displayed in a 1-0 victory over these same opponents during their 2012 qualification campaign.

Burkina Faso arrive seeking a positive result after a 1-1 draw with Benin in their opening match. Having previously secured a 4-2 win against their hosts in an African Nations Championship fixture on 6 August 2025, the visitors possess recent evidence of their attacking potential. This encounter will likely hinge on whether Burkina Faso can maintain their composure under pressure or if the hosts can leverage their experience to dictate the tempo.