Can Burkina Faso qualify for its first ever World Cup? The team needs a huge result to pull off the feat in the second leg against Algeria.
Heading into the second game, Burkina Faso holds a deceptive 3-2 advantage. The win at home puts it ahead on aggregate, but the two away goals could prove costly. Algeria currently needs a 1-0 win or even a 2-1 win, both manageable results, to eliminate Burkina Faso from contention. Burkina Faso's task is easier - the team must earn a draw or win to qualify. However, the scale could be tipped in Algeria's favor as the team will be hosting the match and will undoubtedly benefit from home field advantage.
Burkina Faso may have a trump card, however. Star player Alain Traore looks likely to make a return to the club despite struggling with injuries throughout the year.
"I hope that Alain will be with the team, because he's just started playing again. To have him is always a bonus, because he's a player that can make a difference at any moment," said Burkina Faso's Jonathan Pitroipa, according to BBC. "On free-kicks for instance, we all really trust him. We need him. He's always shown that when he's there he brings something extra. I hope that this time around he can bring us victory again like he did when we qualified for Africa Cup of Nations."
Burkina Faso holds a record of six wins, three draws and five losses against Algeria, according 11v11.com. The website does not include the most recent World Cup qualifying match between the two teams.
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