Nigeria look poised for another successful campaign at the Africa Cup of Nations after missing out on qualification to the last two editions.

The Super Eagles increased their continental trophy count to three in South Africa about six years ago, having missed out on winning the silverware in over three decades.

Still, under the supervision of German coach Gernot Rohr, a new generation of stars aim to build on the disappointing spell endured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia which saw the West African exit at the group stage.

Ranked as one of the powerhouses of African football, expectations remain sky-high for Nigeria and progressing to the knockout phase is the bare minimum target coming into the tournament in Egypt.

The first test in their potential month-long quest is against a relatively green Burundi team that will be having a first-hand taste of the African championship in Egypt.

The Swallows have already flexed their muscles by denying Gabon a berth at the finals during the qualification round where they also drew back-to-back with Mali. That withstanding, the 134th ranked nation is well capable of upsetting the odds despite the challenge it faces.

What is the kick-off time for Nigeria vs Burundi?

Nigeria's opening group fixture with Burundi will kick-off at exactly 17:00 GMT. 

Recent form in all competition:

Nigeria: Win (2), Draw (3), Loss (1)

Burundi: Win (1), Draw (4), Loss (1)

Team news: Who is available, injured or suspended for Nigeria vs Burundi?

Francis Uzoho is expected to start in post for Nigeria despite the concerns raised about his form. Leicester City's Wilfred Ndidi is expected to be the key man in midfield for the Super Eagles and he is expected to marshall affairs alongside the experienced Mikel Obi. Approaching the AFCON 2019 as the top scorer in the qualifying round with seven goals, Odio Ighalo should retain his spot in Gernot Rohr's starting line up. Arsenal's Alex Iwobi and Villarreal's Samuel Chukuweze should provide more width in attack for Nigeria.

Relatively, Burundi will count on the attacking prowess of Fiston Abdul Razak and Cedric Amissi coming into its opening fixture. The pair contributed a combined 11 goals to the Swallows haul during the qualifiers. Saido Berahino will also be in the mix having played a vital role in his country's first-ever appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations.

What is the head to head record of Nigeria vs Burundi?

Nigeria and Burundi have never met in the past. The upcoming clash at the Alexandria Stadium is the very first in any competition.

Potential starting XI

Nigeria:

Uzoho; Shehu, Troost-Ekong, Balogun, Collins; Ndidi, Obi Mikel, Etebo; Iwobi; Chukuweze, Ighalo

Burundi:

Ndikumana; Nsabiyumva, Amissi, Nduwarugira, Moussa; Kamsoba, Ngandu, Bigirimana, Berahino; Razak, Duhayindavyi.

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