Head-to-Head History and Current Form
This AFCON Round of 16 clash sees the defending champions, Ivory Coast, in strong form against a solid and historically competitive Burkina Faso side.
Key Historical Stats
- Historical H2H Record: Ivory Coast dominates with 9 wins, 8 draws, 3 losses in 20 matches. Recent form shows 5 wins in the last 10 meetings. Burkina Faso has 3 wins, most recently a 2-1 friendly victory in November 2022.
- AFCON 2025 Group Stage: Ivory Coast – Group F winners with 7 points, finishing strong with a dramatic 3-2 comeback win vs Gabon. Burkina Faso – Group E runners-up with 6 points, securing a knockout spot with a 2-0 win over Sudan.
- Recent Momentum: Ivory Coast is on a 14-match competitive unbeaten streak, showing resilience coming from 2-0 down. Burkina Faso enters the knockouts with a win but lost 1-0 to group winners Algeria.
- Key Players to Watch: Ivory Coast – Wilfried Zaha, Jean-Philippe Krasso, Evan Guessand, Bazoumana Touré. Burkina Faso – Lassina Traoré, Arsène Kouassi, Dango Ouattara.
Tactical Analysis and Key Factors
This match will be a classic test of offensive momentum versus defensive organization.
- Ivory Coast’s Attack vs Burkina Faso’s Defense: Ivory Coast faces the challenge of breaking down a disciplined Burkina Faso defense that conceded only twice in the group stage. Burkina Faso will look to capitalize on set-pieces or counter-attacks led by Dango Ouattara.
- Midfield Battle and Psychology: The midfield duel will be intense. Ivory Coast’s confidence from their unbeaten run and comeback mentality is a major asset. Burkina Faso must stay disciplined and mentally strong to contain Ivory Coast’s attacks.
- Injuries & Suspensions: Key information on player availability is limited. The fitness of Burkina Faso’s first-choice keeper, Hervé Koffi, who required treatment in the last match, could influence the outcome.
Prediction
All evidence points to Ivory Coast as favorites to win within regular time.
- Most Likely Outcome: Ivory Coast to win. Their superior historical record, unbeaten streak, and proven ability to score and win from difficult positions make them the logical pick.
- Score Prediction: 2-1 or 1-0 to Ivory Coast. A clean sheet is possible, but Burkina Faso has enough threat to potentially score.
- Key Match Factor: The first goal will be crucial. Scoring first will allow Ivory Coast to control the game or force Burkina Faso to open up, creating more space.
Prediction: Ivory Coast to win, most likely 2-1 or 1-0.
