The Burundi national soccer team, known as "Les Hirondelles" (The Swallows), represents Burundi in international football and is governed by the Fédération de Football du Burundi. The team has been competing in international competitions since the 1970s, after the country gained independence from Belgium in 1962.

History

Burundi's soccer team has historically been considered a minor team in African football, but it has shown gradual improvement over the years. The team made its first significant mark in the international arena by qualifying for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 2019. This qualification was a significant achievement for Burundi and brought new attention to the team on the continental stage.

Major Successes

• 2019 Africa Cup of Nations Qualification: The team's qualification for AFCON 2019 was a historic moment, marking their debut in the tournament. Although they did not progress beyond the group stage, participating in the tournament was a major milestone.

Notable Players

• Saido Berahino: Born in Burundi, Berahino moved to England as a child and later played for the England youth teams. He returned to represent Burundi at the senior level in 2018, bringing experience from his professional career in English football.
• Cédric Amissi: A key midfielder for the national team, Amissi has been instrumental in Burundi's successes and has played for clubs in various countries, including Saudi Arabia and China.
• Fiston Abdul Razak: Known for his goal-scoring ability, Razak has been a consistent performer for the national team and has played for clubs across Africa and Asia.

Notable Coaches

• Olivier Niyungeko: He was the head coach during Burundi's historic qualification for the AFCON 2019. His leadership played a crucial role in guiding the team to new heights.

While the Burundi national team may not yet be a powerhouse in African football, their participation in the 2019 AFCON and the presence of talented players have shown their potential on the international stage. The team's progress continues to inspire football fans in Burundi and beyond.