Burundi qualifies for African Cup for 1st time

BUJUMBURA, Burundi (AP) — Burundi has qualified for the African Cup of Nations for the first time after holding Gabon to a 1-1 draw in Group C to collect the point it needed.

Burundi is the third team set to make its debut at an expanded African Cup in Egypt in June and July. Madagascar and Mauritania had already booked their places.

Burundi’s draw at a packed Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium on Saturday meant it ousted Gabon and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for a spot at the tournament.

After starting cautiously, Burundi led through Cedric Amissi’s goal in the 76th minute. Omar Ngando’s own-goal with eight minutes to go gave Burundi a nervous finish. Victory for Gabon would have seen the Gabonese qualify instead.

Burundi held on to clinch the second qualifying place in the group behind Mali and make history for a country that has been trying to reach Africa’s top tournament since 1976.

This year’s African Cup has been expanded from 16 to 24 teams, opening the way for unheralded teams like Madagascar, Mauritania and now Burundi to qualify.