Algeria vs Burkina Faso Prediction & Betting Tips (28 December)

Algeria enter this Africa Cup of Nations clash against Burkina Faso with renewed confidence after a turbulent few years. The Fennec Foxes, who suffered consecutive group-stage exits in 2021 and 2023, have been working under Vladimir Petkovic to restore their continental dominance. In December 2025, Algeria unveiled their full squad for AFCON 2025, with notable inclusions and some controversy around omissions such as Nabil Bentaleb and Himad Abdelli. The team has also been buoyed by their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which has given supporters hope that the squad is finally regaining consistency. The Algerian Football Federation has emphasized preparation, setting key dates and programs to ensure the team arrives in Morocco with momentum. Fans have faced challenges in traveling to support their side, but the excitement remains high as Algeria look to prove they can once again be a force in African football.

Recent matches have shown Algeria’s intent to shake off their past disappointments. In their opening AFCON 2025 fixture, they faced Sudan in Rabat, securing a crucial victory that ended their long winless streak at the tournament since lifting the trophy in 2019. That match was particularly significant, as Algeria had gone six games without a win in the competition, drawing three and losing three across the last two editions. Their 2–0 friendly win against Saudi Arabia earlier in December also provided a morale boost, showcasing improved attacking play and defensive stability. With Riyad Mahrez still central to their creativity and Baghdad Bounedjah offering a proven scoring touch, Algeria’s squad looks balanced and determined. The team’s resilience in recent fixtures suggests they are ready to handle the pressure of a tough group that includes Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Sudan.

Burkina Faso, meanwhile, arrive at AFCON 2025 with a reputation as perennial dark horses. Denied a chance at the 2026 World Cup play-offs due to a controversial CAF rule change, the Stallions have turned their focus entirely to this tournament. Their recent form has been impressive, with four wins and one draw in their last five matches. Victories over Benin (3–0), Mauritania (2–1), Ethiopia (3–1), and Sierra Leone (1–0) highlighted their attacking depth and defensive organization, while a 1–1 draw against Algeria in November showed they can compete toe-to-toe with the North Africans. Under coach Brama Traoré, Burkina Faso have blended youthful energy with experienced campaigners like Bertrand Traoré, creating a side that thrives on counter-attacks and disciplined structure. Their opening AFCON 2025 fixture against Equatorial Guinea was seen as a key test, and their ability to consistently reach the knockout stages in recent editions underlines their pedigree.

This encounter between Algeria and Burkina Faso promises to be a tense and tactical battle, shaped by both teams’ recent resurgence and ambitions. Algeria’s need to reassert themselves after years of disappointment contrasts with Burkina Faso’s hunger to prove they belong among Africa’s elite. The Fennecs will rely on their technical superiority and tournament experience, while the Stallions will look to exploit transitions and defensive lapses. Given Algeria’s improved form and Burkina Faso’s stubborn resistance, the match is likely to be decided by fine margins. Our prediction leans toward Algeria edging the contest with a narrow 1–0 victory, a scoreline that reflects their ability to grind out results while acknowledging Burkina Faso’s defensive resilience. This outcome would mark a significant step forward for Algeria’s AFCON campaign, while leaving Burkina Faso still in contention for progression.