Preview: Sudan vs Burkina Faso - prediction, team news, lineups

A determined Burkina Faso side faces Sudan, knowing that superior structure, physical intensity, and tournament experience could once again be decisive, while Sudan enters the contest aware that defensive discipline and game management will be essential to stay competitive against a more established opponent. Burkina Faso approaches this match with clarity and balance. Even when rotating personnel, their overall structure remains stable, particularly in midfield control and defensive spacing. The Stallions are comfortable dictating rhythm through short circulation before accelerating play via wide channels. Their ability to sustain pressure without losing compactness has been a consistent strength in recent tournament football. Sudan, meanwhile, faces a demanding tactical challenge. While their organization has improved, especially when defending in a low block, they have struggled against sides capable of applying prolonged territorial pressure. When forced to defend deep for extended periods, gaps begin to appear between the lines, and ball retention becomes increasingly difficult. Against teams that combine patience with physical presence, Sudan’s margin for error is extremely limited. Burkina Faso’s main advantage lies in their midfield authority and aerial strength. Sudan’s back line has shown vulnerability when dealing with second balls and late runners from midfield—areas where Burkina Faso regularly generate chances. Overloads in wide areas and diagonal runs into the box could gradually stretch Sudan’s defensive shape and create high-quality opportunities. That said, Sudan is not without threat. Their counterattacking approach and reliance on set pieces offer a potential route into the match. If they remain compact early and frustrate Burkina Faso’s build-up, moments may arise when transitions or dead-ball situations allow them to test the opposition defense. Probable Lineups Sudan: Elneel; Khamis, Karshom, Saeed Ahmed, Barglan; Khidir, Omer; Taifour; Abdelrahman, Eisa, Abdallah Burkina Faso: Koffi; Yago, Dayo, Tapsoba, Kouassi; Sangare, Zougrana; Traoré, Ouedraogo, Ouattara; Kabore Prediction Burkina Faso’s superior organization, physical edge, and greater composure in key phases give them a clear advantage. Sudan may remain competitive early on, but sustained pressure and control in midfield are likely to tilt the balance as the match progresses. If Burkina Faso finds an early breakthrough, the game could open up quickly, exposing Sudan’s defensive limitations. Suggested Pick: Burkina Faso Win or Under 3.5 Goals