Sports Mole previews Monday's Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers between Burkina Faso and South Sudan, including predictions, team news and possible lineups.

Burkina Faso play host South Sudan on Monday having already earned their place in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, the Stallions still need to record a victory over their already-eliminated opponents to secure top spot in Group B.

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Match preview

From reaching the final in 2013 to failing to qualify six years later, Burkina Faso have experienced a range of emotions when it comes to this tournament.

However, after remaining unbeaten throughout their first five games, Kamou Malo can look forward to another appearance in the finals later this year.

While Burkina Faso have three goalless draws on their record, they have proven to be the difference between first and third, keeping Malawi and Uganda behind them.

Ajax youngster Lassina Traore is already proving to be a key man for the Stallions but his only two goals came against Malawi on matchday three.

Although Burkina Faso will not be regarded among the favourites for the title, the 20-year-old and his namesake Bertrand from Aston Villa have the quality to ensure that this nation remain as dark horses for another appearance in the last four.

As far as South Sudan are concerned, they will be eager to end a frustrating campaign on a high after losing four of their five fixtures by a one-goal margin.

Despite conceding just five times during that period, the Bright Stars have scored just two goals, far below what was required to earn a first-ever outing in the Finals.

Nevertheless, having shipped 18 goals in six defeats at the same stage two years ago, Cyprian Besong Ashu will take the positives from the improvements made in defence.

Their only goal in three matches came from the penalty spot, but it condemned second-placed Uganda to their only defeat of the campaign.

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Team News

Having been restricted to a spot among the replacements against Uganda, Lassina Traore could be drafted back into the attack.

While the rest of the starting lineup may remain the same, Zakaria Sanogo, Adama Guira and Hassane Bande are all options for Malo.

Ashu may stick with the same South Sudan XI having opted to make no changes during the defeat to Malawi.

However, with nine members of this squad yet to win a cap for their country, some of the newcomers could be given an opportunity in the second half.

Burkina Faso possible starting lineup:
Koffi; Kabore, Dayo, Tapsoba, Yago; Kabore, Dabo; Bayala, A.Traore, B.Traore; L.Traore

South Sudan possible starting lineup:
Mawith; Angier, Yom, Maker, Omot; Pawaar, Achol, Gibson; Wol, Tito, Majak

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We say: Burkina Faso 1-0 South Sudan

Goals have been few and far between in this group, and we expect no different on Monday. With the visitors having nothing but pride to play for, Burkina Faso could be content with sealing a narrow victory.

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