AFCON: Super Eagles Beat Sychelles as Burundi Secured First Qualifier

Goals from Odion Ighalo, Henry Onyekuru and Moses Simon helped Gernot Rohr’s side wrapped up their Afcon qualifiers on a high
William Troost-Ekong is delighted after Nigeria ended their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with a 3-1 win over Seychelles on Saturday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium.

After Odion Ighalo’s opener was cancelled out by Roddy Melanie, Henry Onyekuru restored the lead to the three-time African champions before substitute Moses Simon sealed the win.

The victory helped Gernot Rohr’s men finish their qualifying campaign as Group E leader after garnering 13 points from six games.

Burundi have qualified for their first ever Africa Cup of Nations thanks to a 1-1 draw with Gabon, who will not join them in Egypt later this year.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s Gabon went into the match in Bujumbura needing to win, as they began the day two points adrift in Group C, but they were unable to clinch the victory which would have booked their place in the tournament.

Stubborn Burundi did well defensively, before taking the lead in the 77th minute when Cedric Amissi found the net, a goal that initially had them going top.

An own goal from Omar Ngando soon after ensured a nervy finish, but Burundi held firm to claim an historic point.

Burundi will join Group C winners Mali at the tournament, which will be played in June and July this year.