On June 10, 2024, Burkina Faso will face Sierra Leone in a crucial Group A match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Stade du 26 Mars. This encounter is vital for both teams, with Sierra Leone seeking consecutive victories for the first time since March 2022 and Burkina Faso aiming to halt a four-match losing streak. The match promises to be an intense battle as both sides look to improve their standings in the group.
Detailed Analysis
Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso’s journey in the World Cup qualifiers has been challenging. After a promising start with a 1-1 draw against Guinea-Bissau and a 3-0 victory over Ethiopia, they have stumbled, losing their last match 2-1 against Egypt. The Stallions have not managed a win since January, suffering five consecutive defeats across all competitions. Their defensive frailties are evident, conceding 10 goals in these losses and failing to keep a clean sheet since their 1-0 win over Mauritania in the AFCON group stages.
Key Players:
- Lassina Traore: The Shakhtar Donetsk forward was a standout performer against Egypt and is expected to lead the attack.
- Ousseni Bouda: The San Jose Earthquakes player will provide crucial support in the final third.
- Dango Ouattara: With Premier League experience from Bournemouth, Ouattara will be vital in breaking down Sierra Leone’s defense.
Expected Lineup: Nikiema; Ouedraogo, Djiga, Tapsoba, Yago; Sangare, Toure, Banse; Bouda, Traore, Ouattara
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Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone enters this match with newfound confidence following their 2-1 victory over Djibouti. This win ended a seven-match winless run, where they had conceded 16 goals while scoring only six. The victory moved them to fourth place in Group A, tied with Burkina Faso on points but trailing on goal difference. Sierra Leone’s attacking trio, comprised of Mustapha Bundu, Amadou Bakayoko, and Sullay Kaikai, will be pivotal in their quest for back-to-back wins.
Key Players:
- Curtis Davies: The 39-year-old Cheltenham Town defender scored his first international goal in the win over Djibouti and will anchor the defense.
- Augustus Kargbo: His goal against Djibouti demonstrates his importance in midfield.
- Mustapha Bundu: The attacker will be crucial in penetrating Burkina Faso’s shaky defense.
Expected Lineup: Kamara; Kakay, Samadiya, Davies, A Koroma; Kargbo, Kabia, P Koroma; Bundu, Bakayoko, Kaika
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Head-to-Head and Previous Encounters
Historically, Burkina Faso has had the upper hand in their encounters with Sierra Leone. However, with both teams currently struggling for consistency, this match is poised to be closely contested.
Betting Tips and Predictions
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Match Winner Prediction
Given the current form and recent performances, this match could swing either way. However, Burkina Faso, despite their poor form, have shown moments of resilience and may edge this encounter due to their slightly superior squad depth and home advantage.
Prediction: Goal.mu/Mauri.bet predicts: Burkina Faso 2-1 Sierra Leone
Both Teams to Score
Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities, making it likely that both will find the net in this fixture.
Prediction: Yes
Over/Under 2.5 Goals
Considering the attacking potential and defensive lapses of both teams, we anticipate a match with over 2.5 goals.
Prediction: Over 2.5 goals
Hotstat
Burkina Faso have conceded first in each of their last five matches, while Sierra Leone have scored in the opening 15 minutes in their last two games.
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