Burundi kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 3-2 away win against Malawi on Thursday at the Bingu National Stadium in Blantyre, Malawi.
The East African side overcame a spirited fightback from the hosts to secure three vital points and climb to the top of Group L.
The match started brightly for Malawi, who created several early chances but failed to find the back of the net.
Their momentum was disrupted in the 22nd minute when an own goal from midfielder Chimwemwe Idana handed Burundi an unexpected lead.
The Flames, however, responded quickly, with Chawanangwa Kaonga curling a superb free-kick into the bottom left corner just nine minutes later to level the score at 1-1.
Burundi regained control before halftime. In the 33rd minute, Jean Girumugisha finished from close range after a well-placed cross by Bienvenue Kanakimana, putting the visitors 2-1 ahead.
The second half saw Malawi push relentlessly for another equaliser. Their persistence was rewarded in the 75th minute when Lanjesi Nkhoma rose highest to head in a cross from Kaonga, making it 2-2.
With the home crowd roaring, Malawi pressed forward in search of a winner, but it was Burundi who struck the decisive blow.
In the 87th minute, Mokono Eldhino found space outside the penalty area and unleashed a powerful shot that beat Malawi goalkeeper George Chokooka, nestling in the bottom right corner to give Burundi a dramatic 3-2 lead.
Despite late attempts from Malawi, including a long-range effort from Chifundo Mphasi during stoppage time, the Flames were unable to equalize.
The loss leaves Malawi, led by coach Patrick Mabedi, needing to regroup quickly as they look ahead to their next fixture against Burkina Faso.
On the other hand, the victory gives Burundi a strong start in Group L and boosts their hopes of qualifying for AFCON for the second time since 2019.
