Burundi vs Ivory Coast Preview & Prediction | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying (CAF)

by Alex Lawes · March 19 2025, 12:35

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Burundi have proved themselves to be entertaining to watch in recent times but they now face a stiff test as they take on the reigning African champions the Ivory Coast this week.

Kick-off date/time: Friday 21st March, 2025: UK – 7:00pm / US ET – 3:00pm / US PT – 12:00pm

How to watch on TV: UK – Not televised / US – Not televised

How to watch online: UK – FIFA+ / US – FIFA+

Key Stats

Côte d'Ivoire won all the previous five international matches between these teams. This is their first meeting in a World Cup qualifying fixture.
Burundi have lost only one of their last six World Cup qualifying matches (W2 D3).
Côte d'Ivoire have lost only one of their last ten World Cup qualifying matches (W7 D2).
Côte d'Ivoire have won three and drawn one of their previous four matches in the current World Cup qualifying campaign.
Côte d'Ivoire have not conceded a goal in their previous four matches in the current World Cup qualifying campaign.

Burundi vs Ivory Coast Prediction

As mentioned, Burundi have been one of the more entertaining teams to watch in Africa and their four 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches have consisted of 14 goals as they take on a strong and impressive Ivory Coast side at Stade d’Honneur in Morocco this week.

Burundi have managed two victories with a draw in their four matches so far but they remain three points behind Group F leaders, upcoming opponents Ivory Coast, ahead of the fifth match day. They most recently suffered a 2-0 defeat to Senegal to confirm their failure to qualify for the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations during the November international break.

The Ivory Coast, with former Reading midfielder Emerse Fae still in charge having taken charge of Les Elephants mid-way through last year’s CAF Africa Cup of Nations that the Ivorians eventually dramatically won. In FIFA recognised matches, the Ivorians have now lost just two of their last 15 matches since suffering back-to-back defeats in last year’s AFCON group stages.

Burundi will likely try and take the game to the Ivorians on neutral territory but the Ivorians do remain the firm favourites for this one with their improved squad and overall results.